A NURSE whose bike was stolen while she was at work treating COVID-19 patients says she is overwhelmed by people's generosity.

Darlington nurse Kirsten Coutts thanked members of the public who have donated money after the bike, along with her uniform and other items, was taken from her car on Saturday.

Two men have been arrested and police have found the bike, along with a motorcycle helmet and leathers.

Ms Coutts said: "I've been overwhelmed at the moment. Everyone is facing a really difficult time a the moment so having people say nice things and being so kind and generous has been overwhelming really.

"It has meant a lot that people have been so kind when they must be struggling themselves."

More than £700 was raised in 24 hours after wellwishers set up an online fundraising page to replace the bike.

Ms Coutts says it will now be donated to the ward where she works at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

She was on shift at the time of the theft, which happened in Neville Road at about 5.30am.

A 28-year-old and a 30-year-old have been arrested on suspicion of burglary and a theft from a motor vehicle. They are currently in police custody.

Detective Sergeant Claire Callaghan said: “NHS staff are selflessly trying to combat the coronavirus so to target a nurse who is working tirelessly to help the public, is particularly despicable.

“We would like to thank the public for their help in this case and are happy to report we have since recovered the nurse’s bike, which will be returned."

“We would also appeal to the public to make sure their homes and any vehicles are secure.”

After her car was broken into, her partner's home was also targeted after a key fob for the house was taken.

The couple believe about £3,000 worth of items were taken from the house, as well as £2,000 worth of items from the car.

They have also warned people about a fraudulent Just Giving page, purporting to be in aid of the couple, which has been reported to the site.