A TEAM of volunteer community angels have received special praise from the hard pressed NHS front line team at Royal Oldham Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

Saddleworth Round Table donated £2,000 worth of MP3 players and tablets for use by patients in recovery from from the coronavirus.

The generous gifts came in the wake of the Tablers hearing of Trevor Walsh’s 54-day fightback against the virus in the ICU.

Trevor, 59, is the husband of Richelle Walsh, 53, Greenfield station’s highly-valued customer care assistant, who broke her silence to talk of his battle against the disease once he was on the road to recovery.

Richelle said: “Trevor was admitted to ICU direct from A&E and was put in an induced coma from admittance. But by using the tablets, I was able to speak to him.

“I would like to thank Saddleworth Round Table for donating these Tablets and MP3 players. Their presentation will bring so much comfort and pleasure to the patients who receive them but also to their relatives and loved ones.

“I used to play Irish music to Trevor. This would make his monitors react - for the better- but also the staff who were singing along and enjoying a light hearted moment.”

Trevor said: “Having communication from Richelle while I was in a coma made my heart beat faster and subconsciously inspired me to survive.

“They were also a great help when I was awake as I couldn't talk but I could still see her - that made me happy and gave me more inspiration and a will to live.

“She would talk to me and keep me updated about family and play music to me. I would look forward to this contact every day.”

Helen Barrow, critical care lead nurse at The Royal Oldham Hospital, said: “On behalf of all the staff and patients on ICU, I would like to say a massive thanks to the members of Saddleworth Round Table for their kind support and generous donation for our ward.

“As we experience a rise in COVID-19 infections in our community, we know the next few months are going to be tough yet again for our staff, patients and their families.

“But the continual support and love shown locally has really made a difference and will spur us on to continue providing the best possible care we can.

“Due to current restrictions visiting is not currently possible, which can be tough for patients and families who can’t spend as much time with each other. Having access to this equipment will make a great difference to those who unfortunately find themselves on ICU during this time.”

Saddleworth Round Table chair, John Arthurs, said: “We are delighted the electronic devices have been so well received by the nursing team. It’s a real pleasure to make a contribution.”