CALLOUS thieves have been accused of putting vulnerable patients at risk after stealing hand sanitisers from a hospital entrance.

South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has confirmed a small number were stolen from the Friarage Hospital at Northallerton.

A spokesperson said staff at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust had been working very hard to keep patients safe and play their part in preventing the spread of all infections, not just Coronavirus.

They added: "The actions of a small minority of people who are taking these products could be putting vulnerable patients at risk and we are asking people not to take the gel.

"We are also asking people visiting our hospitals and community sites to think about hand hygiene before they enter and when they leave our sites."

Holly Wilkinson, leader of the campaign to Save the Friarage said she was appalled.

"The fact that people are stealing from a hospital that is already under severe pressure is absolutely unacceptable.

"The hand gel is there to protect patients, staff, visitors and contractors who come in and out of the hospital on a day to day basis.

"Everyone needs to be a bit more considerate and needs to stop being so arrogant. This could put everyone in the hospital at risk of other infections such as Norovirus which has had a rise in cases.

"The hand gel has since been secured to the holders with cable ties by Friarage staff yet is still being stolen according to some reports. The NHS is under immense pressure as it is, without having to contend with these individuals who have the 'I’m alright Jack' mentality.

"Alcohol gel doesn’t actually stop the Coronavirus as it is only anti-bacterial, so washing your hands with soap and water is the best option.

"We all need to pull together to help our struggling NHS. Anyone who wants to approach the group for help if they are self-isolating can do so by emailing savethefriaragehospital@gmail.com and we will try and help, let’s all work together."