A group of Bromley residents is supporting frontline NHS staff by crafting ear protectors which relieve the strain of wearing face masks for long periods.

Lorraine Mitchell began making the fabric straps to ensure staff were as comfortable as possible throughout their lengthy shifts.

The protectors have been donated to King’s College Hospital, one of the capital’s foremost acute care facilities.

Lorraine said: “It might be a small way of showing how much we appreciate everyone on the frontline, but I wanted to help wherever we can.

“I never expected them to be so popular, but I’m so pleased we can do something that makes a difference.”

Laura Duffell, Matron at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Lauren is my cousin, and a few weeks ago, I mentioned that most of the staff have extremely sore ears, some with blisters from the elastic rubbing from their face masks.

“The ear protectors are made from a simple piece of fabric, and stop the masks from rubbing.

"Wearing them makes all the difference in the world.

“I took in 15 ear protectors for a few colleagues, and they were snapped up, so now we’re dropping off as many as we can.

"Staff really appreciate them.”