STAFF at the Countess of Chester Hospital have been boosted by the "generosity and kindness" shown by the community during the coronavirus pandemic.

A number of businesses and organisations have taken the time to show hospital staff how much their efforts are valued by donating tasty treats and morale-boosting cards and messages of support.

Chief Executive, Dr Susan Gilby, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown to our staff and the hospital over the weekend. It is heartening to know that people want to help and support our wonderful NHS in such testing times.”

The businesses and organisations sending donations to the hospital include:

Starbucks, the Coliseum Shopping Park branch - donated sandwiches and cakes

Carluccio’s, Chester branch - biscuits

Wagamama, Cheshire Oaks - meals.

The Cottage Tea Shop, Frodsham - hampers

Hotel Chocolat, Cheshire Oaks - chocolates

Pizza Hut, Chester - pizza’s for the night shift

Neptune Class, Dee Point Primary School - children delivered hand-made cards and messages showing appreciation for staff

Nando's, Broughton Park - surplus food to staff in A&E

Dough Dough, Northgate Street - pizzas for the Outpatients department

Chester Racecourse - free frozen meals to NHS and emergency workers

Hickory’s in Chester contacted the hospital to donate frozen food. It was decided that the food would be given to the local soup kitchen.

All wards and departments have benefited from the food that has been donated.