STAFF at Airedale Hospital say they have been overwhelmed by the public’s generosity after a plea via social media for drinks sparked a massive response.

Airedale NHS Foundation Trust asked for donations of drinks to help keep hard-pressed frontline workers going during the coronavirus emergency.

And so far, more than 5,000 bottles and cans of water and soft drinks have been donated – with more arriving every day.

Other goods landing at the Steeton hospital have included hand cream, which staff say is much appreciated given the need to constantly wash their hands.

And items received to support people’s wellbeing have been distributed across the trust by administrative staff.

Brendan Brown, the trust’s chief executive, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the public towards our staff and we’re so grateful for all the donations that are coming in. Our needs change day by day and we ask that people keep checking our social media for the latest updates. On behalf of everybody at Airedale, thank you.”