THE community has rallied around Dorset County Hospital after an appeal was launched to support NHS heroes battling the coronavirus pandemic.

The campaign, backed by the Dorset Echo, has raised a staggering £43,156 so far.

Funds raised are going to the DCH charity’s special DCH Covid-19 appeal to benefit the hospital’s staff working under immense pressure.

This will fund initiatives to support staff at DCH, such as nutritious snacks and drinks to help boost the morale of staff on the frontline- including the emergency department, the critical care unit and other care wards - to provide blow-up mattresses or camp beds to enable staff to grab some much-needed sleep if there is not the chance to return to their accommodation, more tables and chairs outside for valuable breaks in the fresh air, hand cream and many other ways.

To donate to the appeal, visit justgiving.com/campaign/DCHCOVID-19Appeal

Financial donations may also be sent to: DCH Covid-19 Appeal, DCH Charity, Williams Avenue, Dorchester DT1 2JY.