Stunning generosity of our caring readers

OVER many years of launching appeals to help those in need or danger, we have asked a lot of our readers. And you have never let us down.

Whether it was money to rebuild the lives of tsunami victims or legal support for the British soldier wrongly convicted of murdering a Taliban i nsurgent, your generosity has been unfailing.

But for all these former glories, the extraordinary response to our campaign to provide desperately needed PPE for workers on the Covid frontline was possibly your finest hour.

The numbers are stunning. In just over six months, you have helped to raise £11.7million, enabling the Mail Force charity to buy 42.3 million individual pieces of protective equipment.

These have included specialised masks, gowns and coveralls and, latterly, advanced testing equipment for some of Britain’s leading medical institutions.

And it’s not just the Mail that has been thrilled by this momentous achievement. Boris Johnson said it was ‘incredible’. For thousands of doctors, nurses, care workers and charities it has been a godsend.

We know our readers aren’t the sort to go in for self-congratulation. Having helped save the lives of those who have willingly put themselves at such huge risk for all our sakes would normally be reward enough.

But on this occasion, as this remarkable appeal comes to its close, you should swell with pride. As the PM said, you have made a real difference. The Mail salutes you.