Champion Brit boxer forced to assure pals he’s ALIVE after BBC show his photo in Coronavirus death montage blunder

A CHAMPION Brit boxer has been forced to assure pals he is “alive and well” after the BBC falsely reported he had died of coronavirus.

Rhys McCole took to social media to declare he was still living after his face was included in a round-up of Scots who had died from Covid-19.

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The three-time national champion had been inundated with messages from worried pals after appearing on Reporting Scotland last night.

Rhys said on Twitter: “Thanks to everyone for their messages.

“Despite @BBCScotlandNews reporting and putting a picture of me on television.

“Saying that I have died of COVID-19, I am actually ALIVE and well.

“My thoughts go to all those that have lost loved ones Folded hands #bbcnews”

Social media users showed their sympathy for Rhys and urged the BBC to make an apology.

Lindsay Graham said: “Inexcusable! Sort it out BBC and apologise quick smart.”

BEEB BLUNDER

Gordon McIntyre wrote: “Omg. What a mistake to make. Hope they send apologies. Stay well. Stay safe.”

Mick Reid said: “Good to know you are alive and kicking, the only form of apology should be a donation to your chosen charity or a donation to the NHS.”

Kris Soutar added: “Omg I actually said to my wife that I knew that guy and instantly came on here to check you’d posted today.”

BBC Scotland has been contacted for comment.

Meanwhile Boris Johnson has revealed England could start to exit lockdown on Monday — while Nicola Sturgeon insists Scotland isn’t ready.

The PM said he aimed to “get going” with easing some measures to help reboot the economy in just four days.

But the First Minister signalled she’d no plans to follow suit.

Ms Sturgeon said: “Our progress is still too fragile to ease restrictions in any significant way.”

The SNP leader shot down prospects of relaxing the lockdown next week — despite the PM planning to loosen restrictions in England.