Preparations are being made for the reopening of Oakham's Air Ambulance and Children's Air Ambulance charity home stores on Monday.

The charity says the openings, from 10am to 4pm, will be subject to government guidelines.

Income from its stores enables it to operate and support NHS partners working on the frontline.

During the current Covid-19 crisis the charity has continued to provide vital critical care services and is attending missions 24/7 throughout this difficult period.

Store manager Scott Bannister said: "It is safe to shop and donate. We look forward to welcoming you to the home stores. Please come along and help save lives by supporting our cause."

Due to the Covid-19 crisis, the charity is facing a projected net loss of income of at least £2.18 million for the months April to June.

It has also had to spend £22,000 on installing screens, hand sanitiser stations, social distancing signage and other health and safety measures in its network of shops.

"The safety of our customers, volunteers and staff is our priority. We had fantastic support from the local communities before the lockdown, and I thank them for that. My hope now is that it will continue when we reopen."

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"I am looking forward to welcoming back customers and ask that they follow in-store safety measures which will be clearly signposted.

Scott continued: "Anyone with extra time on their hands, due to the Covid-19 crisis, who wants to volunteer at our stores please get in touch – there are plenty of jobs for you to do and we would really appreciate your help."

All payments will be card and collection and delivery services will be operated within social distancing guidelines with one driver only in a vehicle. This will limit the type and size of items that can be handled.

Donations will only be collected from outside properties and should be left in a garden or on a driveway. Any changes to these arrangements will be advertised on the charity's website.

Updates for customers will be posted on the stores' social media channels.