Warning over stolen hospital gel

Managers at the Doncaster and Bassetlaw NHS trust say there have been a number of reports of the gel being stolen from wards.

One man ran away when he was approached on a ward at Bassetlaw Hospital in Worksop.

Security staff are reviewing CCTV and staff have been advised on stepping up security.

Trust bosses are unclear why the gel is being stolen but are warning it should not be ingested as it could prove fatal.

The thefts come at a time as staff are battling to prevent norovirus infections, which cause sickness and diarrhoea.

The hand gel, which contains alcohol so that it is quick drying, is designed to encourage better hand hygiene.

Three wards at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and Montagu Hospital in Mexborough remain closed due to the virus.