More than 170 staff members remain working at the charity’s rescue centres

The Scottish SPCA has launched an urgent appeal for face masks to protect its workers from coronavirus.

More than 170 members of staff working in the animal welfare charity’s rescue and rehoming centres are in need of facial protection, with current stocks being depleted at an “alarming rate”.

The charity is now calling on members of the public to send homemade masks to its national wildlife rescue centre, from where they will be distributed to workers in all parts of Scotland.

Graeme Innes, Scottish SPCA deputy head of field operations, said: “Our centres are closed to the public but we need to make sure our staff are safe and able to provide the animals with the best possible care.

“We are finding it hard to meet the needs of our staff as the disposable face masks we have are being used at an alarming rate. We are hoping that the public might be able to spare the time and materials to make us masks that will be readily used by our staff across Scotland.

“Please make sure you include your name and contact phone number or email address in your package. Everyone who makes a mask for us will be entered in to a prize draw to win a private tour around our National Wildlife Rescue Centre.

“If people want to be creative and have a little fun, we do love an animal design!”

Mr Innes said the best material to use for masks is tightly woven cotton such as pillow cases, using several layers to ensure the best protection against respiratory droplets.

“We have been overwhelmed by the generosity and selflessness of people over the pandemic and the support of members of the public does mean the world to us,” he added.

“If people are able to create these essential items for us, we will appreciate every last one.”

Finished face masks can be sent to the Scottish SPCA National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, Alloa, FK10 3AN.