A HEXHAM woman is lending a helping hand to NHS workers in the fight against coronavirus.

Angie Murray-Hill has set up a JustGiving page, as well as a Facebook fund-raiser, with the aim of providing vital equipment to health care professionals.

The online plea, which has amassed more than £800 in donations, is directly linked with local charity, Bright, which supports NHS services across Northumbria and North Tyneside, as well as the Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Charity, which have collectively raised more than £3,546.

Angie, who works for her partner’s company, DS Drain Specialists, in Hexham, was encouraged to help, having followed the outbreak since its emergence.

She said: “I started the fund-raising pages on March 28, though I had actually wanted to set them up much sooner, having followed the situation since January. But I held off, as I was aware that, at that time, not many people considered coronavirus to be a threat.

“I was inspired to start fund-raising, having spoken to people I know who are doctors, who have described the situation as petrifying.

“So, I got in contact with local NHS charities to see what I could do to help. But, I was also keen to look after Newcastle-based hospitals too, as the staff at the Royal Victoria Infirmary helped to keep my sister alive last year.

“Any money donated will go where it is needed most, which is likely to be on specialist personal protective equipment, like masks, gloves and aprons, as well as ventilators.

“And the charities also plan to prepare lunch packs for workers and emotional support.”

Angie said her partner’s business had to close due to Covid-19 and they planned to donate their supplies, including face masks and gloves, to the NHS.

“I am in contact with other local companies, that have had to close, to see if they have an additional supplies they can donate or I can buy, so the doctors and nurses have the equipment they need, whilst they wait for the Government to provide supplies.

“I was a care worker in the area for years, at the Hexham Youth Club, so I knew I had to help here.

Angie said her god-father, David, who lives in Japan, was also supporting the appeal.

“The NHS belongs to all of us, so we can’t sit back. We need to help them so that can help us further down the line.”

A system is currently being developed by the NHS to allow for donations of equipment to hospitals, as well as money.