Tribute to Leeds nurse on first anniversary of his death from Covid

Friends and colleagues of a much loved Leeds nurse are invited to pay tribute to him with a minute’s silence on the first anniversary of his death from Covid-19.

Khuli Nkala, 46, who worked as a charge nurse in the forensic services team at Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, died from coronavirus on April 17 2020.

The minute's silence will take place at 10am this Saturday (April 17).

And a memorial bench, which has been engraved with a special phrase, is set to be unveiled in the central courtyard at the Newsam Centre in Seacroft, where Mr Nkala worked.

The bench has been engraved with the words 'Have a good shift' - the phrase Mr Nkala greeted colleagues with during his working day.

Claire Layton, matron of forensic services, said: “We will all remember Khuli together at the same time, but apart, due to the current covid-related restrictions.

"Normally Khuli’s Zimbabwean culture would have been to celebrate his life with some good music and good food with his friends and family.

“We can’t do this at the moment but we feel this is the best way, informally, to mark that Khuli is gone but not forgotten.

"His family has been invited to join us remotely in this minute’s silence also.

“I hope that anyone in the trust who wants to join in can do this at home wherever they are and dependent on whatever they are doing in their work or family life.”

Cathy Woffendin, director of nursing professions and quality, said: “The last year has been particularly challenging with a time for reflection, at times of sadness for those of us who have lost loved ones and those we care about.

"As we have now reached the 12-month milestone of living in a pandemic, I would like to take the time to pay tribute to our staff members who sadly died from Covid.

“Khuli was a man of integrity, honour and wit, and had a smile that brightened up everyone’s day.

"His presence was felt by all who came into contact with him. He was kind, caring and compassionate, and extremely professional.

“He was an excellent, positive role model for the nursing profession, and he demonstrated the trust's values in his everyday work.

"Nothing was ever too much trouble. A kind, humble gentleman who continues to be greatly missed by everyone.”

An online memorial mass for Khuli will be held at 11am on Sunday April 18 at Leeds Cathedral.

To take part, access the YouTube channel which will be live from 10.45 am at www.leedscathedrallive.org.uk