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Good samaritans who are collecting donations for nurses working on the Intensive Care Unit at South Tyneside hospital are appealing for help finding more drop-off points.

Volunteers from South Shields Community Warriors group launched their kind-hearted initiative for staff working on the ICU ward at South Tyneside District Hospital on Friday, March 20.

They are collecting donations of essential items such as food and toiletries for those who are on the frontline of the coronavirus crisis.

The Marsden Inn in South Shields was announced as the first collection point, but the pub has since had to close after Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s announcement of Friday.

Marsden Inn landlord Michael Ward and South Shields Community Warriors. | JPIMedia

Mr Johnson ordered all pubs, bars and restaurants to close in an attempt to encourage people to observe advice on social distancing to slow the spread of Covid-19.

Click here for an interactive map showing the spread of Covid-19 across the UK

Although the pub had initially remained open for donations, due to attempts to purchase alcohol on the site it has now closed completely.

Donations can still be left but people will need to knock.

ICU nurses at South Tyneside District Hospital receive their first donation package. | Other 3rd Party

However, the latest developments have led to a call for other shops and establishments – which are still open – to volunteer as drop-off points in a bid to collect as many items as possible.

The Marsden Inn landlord, Michael Ward said: “The more places that people can drop items off at, the better.”

The scheme was launched in response to reports of NHS staff across the country "breaking down in tears" after being confronted by empty shelves in supermarkets.

Joseph Langley, of South Shields Community Warriors, said: “We took the first donation to the hospital on Friday and we couldn’t believe how grateful they were for it.

“We would like to collect enough donations to be able to deliver every couple of days.

“When we get sick they are the ones who will be looking after us, the least we can do is try and keep them fed and watered for now.”

He added: “I’m now looking for any local shops who would be willing to accept donations. If we do go into full lockdown as other countries have, their shops have still remained open.”

If you can help contact the South Shields Community Warriors Facebook page.

Appeal for shops to help collect donations for South Tyneside hospital ICU nurses

Click here for an interactive map showing the spread of Covid-19 across the UK