BAGGING the bug has proved to be so successful that more machinists are being sought to keep up with demand.

Since Bag the Bug was set up by Horwich grandma Donna Powell and her friends at the beginning of lockdown, thousands of NHS and care staff have benefitted.

An army of amateur stitchers was recruited to turn donated duvets, pillowcases and other fabric into drawstring bags so frontline workers could carry their uniforms home and put them straight in the washing machine without risking spreading coronavirus.

Demand for the bags is still as high as ever but with many volunteers now having to return to work after the end of furlough more machinists are need to fulfill requests from organisations such as care homes and schools.

"If we can help with one small bag, it may make a difference," said Donna.

Anyone who can spare some time to help can contact Bag the Bug by via their facebook page at Bag the bug ~ covid-19 (North West).