Businessman Mr Yousuf Bhailok is asking Prestonians to pull together in this time of need to raise £1million for Preston NHS staff.

Mr Bhailok posted a video on social media over the weekend, stating his family will donate £100,000 and another private donation of £100,000 for the cause.

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He also added that he will make his BHS store, on Fishergate, available for the storage, collection and distribution of food and equipment.

The Coronavirus has become a worldwide pandemic with 5,683 infected and 257 deaths in the UK as of yesterday (22^nd March), with the elderly and people with underlying health conditions most at risk.

Read More: How these family-run Preston businesses are helping people affected by coronavirus

Restaurants and Bars closed their doors on Friday to avoid social gatherings, as well as large chains McDonalds and Costa stating they will be closing up today to help contain the spread.

In his video, Mr Bhailok said, “We are thankful that in this country we are lucky that we gave the NHS and the skilled doctors.

“And that the government are trying to get the necessary ventilators, the PPE equipment and so forth and ensure that they will be equipped very soon.”

Read More: Ashton mum-of-two reaches out to support other parents affected by coronavirus

Mr Bhailok highlighted the importance of supporting our local NHS staff through this tough time and hopes that Prestonians will come together to help and help as they can.

Mark Whittle at Preston BID has said, “NHS practitioners are working around the clock in these unprecedented times, and unfortunately our reliance on them will be greater than in recent times.

“I’m sure we all stand behind them, and all key workers, doing what they can to mitigate the impact of this dreadful virus.

“Mr Bhailok’s fund is a prime example of proud Prestonians pulling together through tough times, it’s what we do best.”