With the sudden outbreak of coronavirus, there has been a huge rise in the demand for gloves, masks and protective equipment.

In response to the situation, The Donkey Sanctuary has donated personal protection equipment (PPE) to local NHS teams and social care providers in the South West.

In line with government guidelines, the charity asked its non-donkey-facing staff to work from home, as a result of less people on its sites, the organisation had spare PPE that they have donated to NHS workers and local organisations and groups providing community health care.

The vet team at the international animal welfare charity based in Sidmouth, Devon have also worked closely with The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to lend vital equipment to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

Dr Faith Burden, Director of Research and Operational Support, said: "We have all seen the incredible and selfless work that the NHS has been doing to keep us all safe and we wanted to play our part in supporting them."

Donated items include: face masks, surgical caps, full body suits, full length surgical gowns, particulate respirators, full facemasks and spare filters, Sterilium (surgical hand disinfection) and hand gel.

The Donkey Sanctuary has enough PPE supplies left for its operational needs to care for its resident donkeys and mules in its care across the UK.

The Donkey Sanctuary is a global leader for equine welfare, research and veterinary care. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation.