An Andover man has described the pain a person goes through at having to say their last goodbyes over an online stream.

Jason Briley's aunt Sheila Norris, 80, had vascular dementia when she contracted Covid-19 and passed away a few days later.

But Jason was unable to join the rest of his family in South London - where Shelia lived - because of the social distancing restrictions put in place.

So instead he watched the service via a weblink.

"It was awful," he said of not being there in person.

"I could see my cousins on the screen hurting so much but couldn't hug them, that was hard.

"The online funeral was hard but at least we had that option.

"In the USA, mass graves are a thing that is happening. At least this way a handful were allowed in at a distance and we all got to hear the story of her life and her favourite tunes, so I guess we are luckier than some."

Jason has also set up a Facebook page to try and encourage good spirits around town

Jason would always try and make trips to see his aunts and cousins in Peckham at least a couple of times a year.

Not being able to do so for such an important moment made him think just how important communication is during these difficult times.

"Now is the time to call those people you love but perhaps have not said hi to in a while and let them know your feelings," he said.

"They deserve that and it's a good thing for you, to not 'wish you had' if something awful happens is these topsy turvey times."