A GYM near the Royal Free Hospital has been transformed into a staff “supermarket” so doctors and nurses do not have to go far in search of supplies between their marathon shifts.

And the best bit is: all the food is free.

The hospital’s charity said a big response to an appeal for help had led to enough donations to stock the “shop” for workers on the coronavirus frontline. It has been set up in the Rec Club, next to the hospital in Pond Street, Hampstead, and has been decorated with messages of support from children living nearby.

Kelly Rush, who is managing the centre, said: “There has already been an incredible response from companies – local and national – who want to express their thanks to staff and do what they can to help. We’ve been overwhelmed by the fantastic donations but we definitely need more to keep coming in each and every day. Staff are incredibly grateful for the support and goodwill clearly on display.”

Judy Dewinter, chair of the Royal Free ­Charity, said: “The dedication being shown by staff in the response to Covid-19 is remarkable, and we are listening carefully to what matters to staff. “They are putting their patients first and this is a real opportunity for us to help them to take care of themselves and their families. Seeing staff leave with a full bag and a smile on their face is absolutely fantastic.”

In a separate appeal, the Royal Free asked if anybody could donate spare old mobile phones (iPhone 6s or newer) to help patients while a ban on visits has to be enforced due to coronavirus restrictions

Businesses who want to help stock the ‘supermarket’ for NHS staff should email the charity at RFLHeroes@royalfreecharity.org.uk