Almost 600 supplies delivered to Poole Hospital Charity

The idea came to light after Liam Kelly, 23, and Josh Warren, 24, spoke to NHS staff in Bournemouth and Poole about the effect of Covid-19.

The pair became aware of difficulties facing hospital patients in the local area and set up a fundraising page.

Managing to raise over £1,000 in five days, they have now delivered 594 supplies to Poole Hospital Charity, including sanitary towels, chocolate, hair products, deodorant, energy bars, shower gels and toothpaste.

Writer and window cleaner Liam, from Oakdale, said: "Due to social distancing measures, patients are unable to be visited by friends and family at present.

"Not only does this put people in a lonely place as they battle their illnesses, but it also poses a problem for individuals in the sense that, without visitors, they cannot receive the toiletries and other items that are needed to make their stay in hospital more comfortable and bearable."

They aim to make their next delivery more than four times the size, with more toiletries, magazines for men and women, hand cream for staff, activity packs, colouring books and reading books for children.

Items are purchased online to reduce the risk of contamination and to lower costs through buying in larger quantities.

The two men then deliver boxes to the hospitals using hygiene precautions.

Liam added: "We plan to help lift patient's spirits by raising funds to purchase essentials, treats and items for entertainment, then deliver them for dispersion around as many wards as possible within Bournemouth and Poole Hospitals."

They also had two virtual gigs based on Irish music and Celtic Football Club matches - which Liam supports - which went towards their fundraiser for Bournemouth and Poole Hospitals.

Any money left over will be split between Poole Hospital Charity and Bournemouth Hospital Charity.

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/patient-supplies-drive-b039mth-amp-poole-hospitals.