THE generous people of Worcester have dug deep to support the 'guardian angels' on the frontline, saving lives in the battle against coronavirus.

However, there is still work to be done and people in the city and across the county are being urged to keep donating to their local NHS as the total number of deaths from Covid-19 reach 2,137 across the UK so far.

A further 486 people, who tested positive for the Coronavirus (Covid-19) have died in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed reported deaths in hospitals in England to 2,137.

Patients were aged between 13 and 99 years old and 20 of the 486 patients (aged between 13 and 93 years old) had no known underlying health condition.

The generosity of the people of the city to the cause comes as Newsquest, the company that runs the Worcester News, reached and then surpassed its target of raising £5,000 as part of a national campaign.

As the Worcester News went to press the fundraising page had already raised £6,256 as people responded to the call to support NHS Charities Together which supports 250 charities across the UK. Their urgent appeal seeks to raise money to get support for those workers and volunteers at the coal face of this pandemic.

Funds will be used for well-being packs and gifts for staff in hospitals up and down the country, including here in Worcester, food deliveries and refreshment, covering the cost of travel and accommodation and other items,which enhance the wellbeing of NHS staff and volunteers.

The unprecedented situation means we are more reliant than ever on our doctors, nurses and medical staff in our NHS hospitals serving on the frontline, putting themselves at risk to help us. That is why we are encouraging our readers to continue to dig deep and support the campaign, giving what they can by visiting www.gofundme.com/f/support-our-nhs-guardian-angels

We also extend our thanks to all those who have supported the campaign in print and online so far. An appeal by the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity has already raised £1,494 towards supporting staff.

As previously reported the charity wanted to go the extra mile for Worcestershire Acute NHS Hospitals Trust staff and patients during the coronavirus crisis, to ensure that hospital and community services can continue to offer the best possible support to help save lives.

The trust, which runs Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester, is under increased pressure during the current pandemic to support their people in challenging conditions when their staff are going above and beyond to make sure that this high quality care continues during uncertain times.

A new appeals number - 01562 828869 - has been set up to co-ordinate donations.

Donations of funds can also be left by visiting www.justgiving.com/campaign/helpworcsacute