How a Derbyshire firm is helping to save lives during the coronavirus crisis

A Derbyshire company is delivering life-saving equipment to hospitals across the country during the coronavirus crisis.
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R Wilkes Transport and Storage Ltd, which is based at Holmewood Industrial Estate near Chesterfield and has a fleet of 25 vehicles, is working free-of-charge on behalf of the Government and the NHS to ensure hospitals have what they need to treat coronavirus patients.

Richard Wilkes, managing director, said: “We are delivering medical equipment on a daily basis all over the UK.

Covid-19 has killed nearly 5,400 people in the UK.Covid-19 has killed nearly 5,400 people in the UK.
Covid-19 has killed nearly 5,400 people in the UK.
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“We have recently been taking large numbers of anesthesia machines and hospital theatre beds and lighting to various NHS trusts.

“Just to give an idea of volume, on a normal year only 20,000 units of anesthesia machine are moved – the order book is for 100,000 with what is happening now.”

Mr Wilkes said he has put plans in place for his company to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week if required.

He also hailed his ‘absolutely amazing’ staff and said: “I am so proud of them all for the efforts and support they are giving and the risk they are putting themselves in as key workers to provide equipment to save others’ lives.”

R Wilkes Transport and Storage Ltd is delivering vital equipment to UK hospitals.R Wilkes Transport and Storage Ltd is delivering vital equipment to UK hospitals.
R Wilkes Transport and Storage Ltd is delivering vital equipment to UK hospitals.
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Meanwhile, Door 2 Door Taxis on Knifesmithgate, Chesterfield, is taking food parcels to people who are elderly and vulnerable.

A spokesperson for the firm said: “This is being funded by ourselves.

“We believe nobody should go hungry - so if you are in need of a basic food parcel please please send a private message on our Facebook page.”

No 10 The Tearoom on Bath Street, Chesterfield, has also launched a home delivery service for those who cannot go shopping.

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A spokesperson for the shop said: “Wishing you could get to the shops?

“Fear not!

“We can come to you and all the health and safety measures have been applied.”

For more information, call the shop on 01246 237843.

In her televised message to the nation, the Queen thanked people who are carrying out essential work during the crisis, saying ‘every hour’ of their time ‘brings us closer to a return to more normal times’.

“I’m sure the nation will join me in assuring you that what you do is appreciated,” she said.