'YOU would not have got better care if you were a multi-millionaire''

Those were the words from the family of a popular driving instructor from Barrow who died in hospital after battling Covid-19 for two weeks.

Rodger Stretch, from Solway Drive, Walney, started getting symptoms on Christmas Day.

The father-of-one, who worked with Topgear Driver Training, died from Covid pneumonia on January 21, aged 44.

His father-in-law David Rowland said: "He was very popular and well-known in the area through his work with the driving school.

"He managed to get 10 passes in December alone which was his big claim to fame.

"He started getting symptoms on Christmas Day and by January 3 he was taken into hospital. The following day he was taken into intensive care where he remained, through his birthday on the 13th, until January 21.

"Emma, his wife and my daughter, has been coping well, but it was terrible when he was in there.

The Mail: FAMILY: Rodger Stretch (left) with wife Emma and son JensonFAMILY: Rodger Stretch (left) with wife Emma and son Jenson

"The consultant Mr Till was brilliant. He would give updates on him daily. I couldn't praise him more.

"It wasn't just him though. All the staff were superb and I know they are all so busy at the moment yet they still did such a good job.

"You would not have got better care if you were a multi-millionaire."

Mr Stretch not only had a career teaching people to drive but that was also his passion as he loved 'anything to do with an engine or wheels'.

"He loved motorsports and cars," Mr Rowland said.

"His son is even named after Jenson Button, the F1 driver."

The Mail: PASS: One of Rodger's driving students happy to have passed his testPASS: One of Rodger's driving students happy to have passed his test

Before starting as a driving instructor a few years ago, Mr Stretch worked as a sales manager for Arnold Clark in Kendal and Morecambe.

Funeral arrangements are being made and the family thanked Little and Caine.

Topgear Driver Training are planning a driving procession on Thursday morning. They will be setting off from Solway Drive to commemorate their co-worker and friend.