Glasgow’s Lord Provost has issued an urgent appeal for vital safety equipment for frontline staff working during the coronavirus crisis.

Philip Braat has asked any business who may have unused, unopened plastic aprons, face masks, hand sanitisers and plastic gloves to get in touch.

He said that staff working in care homes, those delivering home care to the most vulnerable and others, including the staff still working collecting the bins, are in need of safety equipment.

With demand from around the world increasing for personal protection equipment the council doesn’t want to run out and put lives at risk.

In a video on social media, Mr Braat, said: “In these incredibly difficult times I am appealing directly to our businesses.

“Increased demand for important protective equipment used daily by our frontline staff like care workers means supplies all over the country are under real pressure.

“Please let us know if you have stock that you are able to donate to help us prevent the spread of Covid-19."

Ms Braat, added: “The priority is those going into residents homes working with the elderly and vulnerable.

“I’m aware there’s been various appeals including for hospitals. This is for council staff and I hope hospitals get the good response they need as well.

“We are getting to the critical stage. We want to avoid the situation were we don’t have enough.”

He said already there has been a good response.

The Lord Provost said he was appealing to every and any kind of business in Glasgow and the west of Scotland who may have the necessary equipment that can help frontline staff.

He said businesses who can help can contact John.Paterson3@glasgow.gov.uk