Coronavirus: Baffins dad in self-isolation cheers up daughter with Freddie Mercury performance of Queen hit

Tamzin Cormican from Fratton was carrying out a few errands to help out her parents and brother, who are in isolation at their Baffins home because her dad, Martin, has multiple sclerosis and is disabled.

The 26-year-old turned up to drop off some essential goods when she could hear Queen hit I Want to Break Free playing loudly.

Tamzin said: ‘Next thing I know, I pulled up to the drive and dad’s hanging out of the window dressed as Freddie Mercury. I could not stop laughing all day.’

Martin, 54, is known in his family as being a bit of a joker, and wanted to do something to surprise his daughter and keep her spirits up.

He said: ‘I’m always the one that jokes around and dresses up and makes people smile, so I wanted to have the last laugh and surprise my daughter.’

Tamzin grabbed a short video of his performance, complete with black wig and cleaning brush microphone, and posted it on Facebook, where she has been amazed to receive more than 600 shares.

Martin’s video sees him next to comical signs saying ‘Grounded by the government’ and ‘Free me or send beer’, which his wife Dee helped to make, and has cheered plenty of people up on social media.

‘I expected my family to share it but I didn’t expect this many people in less than 24 hours to have shared it,’ said Tamzin, who said her dad is known for this wacky behaviour.

SEE ALSO: Coronavirus: Christmas lights bring joy to locked-down neighbourhoods in bid to keep spirits up

She added: ‘I remember being at college many years ago and dad would wake me up every day.

‘There was one week he woke me up every day dressed as a different person, a clown, a pirate. He’s a nutjob and I love him.’

A visit next week to deliver more supplies may see Tamzin greeted by another funny character.

She said: ‘Keep looking out for your family as best you can and just check in on them. Social media and the internet is such a blessing we have these days.’

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

Covid-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS