AN East Lancashire bedlinen company has started converting its signature cotton pillowcases into scrubs bags for NHS staff.

Mediterranean Linens of Enterprise House on Burnley's Billington Road Estate is making the change as the firm's is contribution to the national effort against coronavirus.

When the Burnley bedlinen company was approached with the request to make the vital scrub bags, they jumped at the chance.

But they aren't stopping there but adding little treats to keep the NHS staff's spirits up and asking other businesses to help out.

A company spokesman said:"The idea is not just to supply scrubs bags, but to fill them with thoughtful little gifts, like Christmas stockings.

"The whole thing is being organised and funded privately by one generous NHS staff member. That's why we're asking other businesses to get involved.

"The items we're looking for are things like pens and pencils, chocolates, key rings, face and hand creams.

"We want to make a special gift for the NHS. If any other organisations would like to contribute something to the scrubs bags, please get in touch as soon as possible."

Ashraf Said, the founder and managing director of Mediterranean Linens said: "We want to say a massive, heartfelt thank you to everyone who works on the front line of this crisis. We are so proud of the NHS. It's the envy of the world. With these gifts, we are saying that we are so grateful for everything you do."