Health officials in Somerset are appealing for protective equipment for care workers.

Two former care homes – Popham Court in Wellington and one in Yeovil – are being re-opened to free up beds in the county’s acute hospitals.

Somerset County Council has issued an appeal to businesses for personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep health workers and care staff safe at these new facilities.

It is also continuing in its efforts to recruit more staff and encourage former care sector employees to come out of retirement.

The council, as part of the Avon and Somerset Local Resilience Forum, is appealing for water repellent surgical face masks, non-latex gloves, disposable plastic aprons, eye protection and hand sanitiser.

Council chief executive Pat Flaherty said: “As a short-term measure, we are asking local businesses for any support they can provide with supplies of PPE. If any are able to help, we would urge them to get in touch.”

If you can supply any of the items on the PPE list, email [email protected]