HUNDREDS of well-meaning seamstresses have joined forces to craft protective equipment for hospital staff.

A campaign, spearheaded by Martin Leatherdale, centre manager at Colchester’s Lion Walk shopping centre, aims to tackle the “urgent demand” for protective gear at Colchester Hospital.

“Caroline Bates, head of fundraising for Colchester Hospital, described to me there is an urgent demand for additional equipment to sustain a constant supply,” said Mr Leatherdale.

The centre partnered with a social media community group to put out an appeal to keen seamstresses. Hundreds took the appeal to heart.

Mr Leatherdale said: “The response has been absolutely overwhelming, I cannot thank everyone enough.

“We have received offers of help from professionals with workshops, through to the vulnerable and shielded who simply want to do all they can to support the NHS, it’s been truly humbling.

“We are now co-ordinating efforts to make contact, deliver and collect materials with patterns, free of charge.”

He added: “We still need help though, I have pledged an immediate £1,000 for materials which will produce around 100 sets, however I’m sure we can produce many, many more.”

To donate to the campaign, visit gofundme.com/making-nhs-colchester-hospital-scrubs-ppe