A community hub providing support for Lewisham NHS workers was "overwhelmed" with food donations from local suppliers who responded to their plea for help.

The Help Lewisham Hospital team puts together packages of food and essential household products so staff can "maximise their rest time", offering a dedicated delivery service.

When stocks began to run low, founder Laurence Smith put a call out for supplies social media. Within 24 hours, their hub at The Point was full.

Mr Smith, 34, a cycle courier, said: "This time last night, our tables were bare. Right now? We probably have the best stocked little shop in south east London.

"The flow of goodwill towards our little hub has been truly extraordinary.

"The response we have had in the last day has been amazing.

"We've had donations from all types, big businesses and small businesses.

"The staff are really grateful as it gives them a place to come and get groceries without queues, as well as a place to have a break, a chat and a drink.

"I just want to thank everyone for the support we have received."

Mr Smith started the initiative after he witnessed how overcrowded supermarkets remained in the dedicated NHS workers opening hour on Sunday mornings.

Building a network of 45 couriers, he set up a gofundme page to finance supplies, which has already reached more than £11,000.

The fresh food and essential household goods can be picked up from their based at The Point on Lewisham High Street, which usually functions as a Christian community centre.

In normal circumstances, Mr Smith's fundraising efforts go towards The Bansang Hospital Appeal, which works to transform healthcare delivery in The Gambia.

His call for donations on Monday was met by a range of local businesses.

Waitrose Greenwich provided half a lorry of food aid, which alone exceeded The Point's capacity.

Pret donated 100+ kg of yoghurt, which has already since made its way to the staff area of ICU.

Gail's Bakery of Blackheath donated all their excess food and continue to do so every day going forward, while TFC Turkish supermarket in Catford donated 80+ loaves of bread.

Forage and Feast donated 12 home cooked meals for NHS staff, two of which were diverted to form part of some emergency food aid packages for acutely vulnerable people.

In addition to helping hospital workers, the project supports other vulnerable members of the community in isolation.

To donate to the project, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/HelpLewishamHospital?fbclid=IwAR0d-SA9biSG4Ppn_8f7Ji36V9AafbylCU97m1MsDcskoa3iuZJso0GimE8