A VILLAGE pub has decided to dedicate its newly-launched accommodation to NHS staff helping to tackle Coronavirus.

The White Swan in Gilling West, near Richmond, has recently launched an accommodation offering, but during this time is closing down for bookings to be able to offer free rooms for NHS and medical staff.

Proprietors Dean and Vic Hodgson would like to be able to provide a place to stay for any medical staff who feel unable to go home, in the hope of containing the virus.

Mr Hodgson said: "Our rooms are open to anyone in the medical sector who may feel they are unable to go home after work or would like an alternative place to stay during the current situation. We have three rooms available and we’d like to put them to good use. It’s the least we can do to help right now."

The motel-style rooms at The White Swan are all self-contained and have been thoroughly cleaned ready for use. Mr Hodgson and his kitchen team are also looking at preparing ready meals to deliver locally for those in medical need or working shifts.

He said: "With government advice soon to be that the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions to stay inside, we don’t want them to go without, and definitely not to venture into supermarkets."

If you, or someone you know would benefit from a helping hand thanks to The White Swan team, call them on 01748-825122.