HOSPITAL staff are going about their work dressed in brightly coloured masks and scrubs thanks to a donation from a voluntary group

The North East Maskateers, which was set up in east Durham in April in response to the pandemic, has been using old curtains and bed sheets to craft personal protective equipment for hospitals and care homes.

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust thanked volunteers for the donation.

Steph Gale, clinical coordinator for critical care, said: “Colleagues from across the trust have been touched by the overwhelming support we’ve received throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We’ve had treats, meals, more chocolates than we can count and even specialised equipment like this donation. It’s just been an extraordinary outpouring of love and support and we are so, so grateful to everyone.”

Gail Watson, who started the North East Maskateers with Andi Miller, said: “I think that the whole maskateers project has been a valuable experience for all of those involved. A lot of our volunteers are shielding, and it gives them a purpose. We have a community Facebook page, where we all help each other. I can see great friendships being forged as they interact with each other.”