Peaky Blinders star among celebs backing £50,000 fund to treat NHS heroes like rock stars

North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust was the first in the region to take loan of a luxury sleeper van that has been used by celebrities including Paul Weller, Alice Cooper, Elbow, Biffy Clyro, Will Smith, and Primal Scream at North Tees hospital.

But the trust needs around £500 a day to keep it.

Former Stockton South MP Dr Paul Williams, who has returned to NHS, has started Sleep4Heroes with Teesside businessmen Nick Waites, Karl Pemberton and Martyn Pullin, and assistance from Cornerstone Marketing.

Peaky Blinders actress Charlotte Riley from Stockton, married to Hollywood actor Tom Hardy, TV presenter Steph McGovern, Middlesbrough Football Club and Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen have all got behind the fundraising push.

Dr Williams, who often works at Hartlepool’s Urgent Care Unit, said: “There are many staff who carry on working tonight, tomorrow, 24 hours a day, looking after some of the sickest people with coronavirus.

“Staff are allowed to use the bus for relaxation, a rest, during their busy shifts. It is a wonderful gesture but there are costs associated with it.”

The fund has set a £50,000 target and has raised just over £4,500 so far.

Mr Waites said any donations small or large are welcome adding: “Whether that be a daily contribution of £5 in lieu of a couple of cups of cappuccino that you’re no longer having, £50 per week in lieu of filling your car with fuel, or a one-off donation no matter how large or small, it will all help.”

Ben Houchen said: “We have fantastic community spirit here in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool so please give what you can to help our own.

“Last night, like lots of people across the Tees Valley, I was outside showing my appreciation for our amazing NHS workers.

“But by helping this charity, we can do something that will be of even more benefit to the health workers right here in our region who are looking after our families, friends and neighbours.”

To donate visit North Tees Sleep 4 Heroes at justgiving.com

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