Staff have appealed for help in feeding redeployed NHS workers using a hotel as a temporary home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Holiday Inn, formerly known as The Coniston, in London Road, Sittingbourne, has been housing workers vital to the battle against the virus since Monday, March 16.

Half of the 78 rooms are available at any time for people to use as a place to rest their head following a shift.

The hotel was approached by the health service after a number of people were redeployed, away from their homes, by health chiefs to other areas of the country. Other key workers, including police and prison officers are also able to take advantage of the staying at the hotel.

When they check out of a room, it undergoes a two-day deep clean before becoming vacant and ready to use again.

A plea has now been issued by the hotel's managers for food and ready meals to be donated so NHS staff can have something to eat when they return.

Iceland donated 27 meals yesterday but at least 40 are needed each day when the hotel is at full capacity.

"It's heart breaking really to think that the front line workers are away from their families."

Sales manager, Jacquie Lea, said: "You can imagine, you've just come off a heavy shift and all you want is something quick to eat and to get your head down before going again the next day.

"It's heart breaking really to think that the front line workers are away from their families.

"We're looking for anyone who can donate or sell us some frozen or ready meals or anything near expiry.

"We're don't necessarily want them to be free of charge but we just need some help sometimes."

The hotel is also in need of essentials including bread and milk for breakfast.

"Our suppliers aren't able to get to us because they've cut right down," Mrs Lea added.

"Working on the assumption that 40 rooms are taken per night, we would need 40 meals per night."

The business, headed up by operational director – Paul Evans, has agreed discounted rates for those staying while working for the NHS.

If you can help, contact Mrs Lea on 01623 462206 or salesmgr@conistonhotelkent.com or the hotel on 01795 410560.

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