FIVE hundred toiletry bags for patients in Hywel Dda’s Covid-19 field hospitals have been donated by the South West and Mid Wales branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The ziplocked, individual toiletry bags contain a toothbrush and toothpaste, a comb or brush, deodorant, shower gel, shampoo, razor and shaving cream in the male bags and sanitary items in the female bags.

These bags will make a huge difference to coronavirus patients from Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire , who are unable to receive visitors or any packages during any stay.

Ian Govier, regional leader of the church which has a congregations in Newcastle Emlyn, said: "Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the South and West Wales area are delighted to be of service in assisting and working in partnership with key organisations such as Hywel Dda University Health Board.

“During these unsettling times, we hope that the hygiene kits will especially benefit those who come into healthcare settings often without warning and time to prepare bags containing some essential personal items.”

Sarah James, general manager Covid-19 operations for Hywel Dda health authority, said the toiletry bags would be distributed across all field hospitals as they become operational.

She said: “We are overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of the local branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The bags will be deployed to patients across the three counties.”