Centre shuts

Ashford’s blood plasma donation centre has ceased operations after the treatment was found ineffective on Covid-19.

The facility opened just three weeks ago in County Square amid hope it would cut hospital deaths.

People who had recovered from a positive coronavirus case were asked to donate blood, from which its plasma would be siphoned.

But in a statement, County Square said: “Plasma donations have been temporarily suspended. Donors are asked to keep the appointments booked for the future while the team explores all the options.”