Free deliveries of groceries and convenience items – and within 28 minutes – are available for NHS staff during the coronavirus crisis from a Bournemouth business.

Originally launched in China, 8DOL, a service aimed at students, opened in Bournemouth in September 2018, followed by Southampton four months later.

It has since launched in Portsmouth with ambitious plans to open in a further ten cities this year.

Developed for people that are put off by conventional supermarket delivery because next day delivery is not fast enough. 8DOL has a £5 minimum spend.

With students leaving town early due to the universities suspending face to face teaching, 8DOL says it is looking to use its team to support the NHS and the local community.

Craig Moore, 8DOL’s Operations Manager, pictured left, said supermarkets were currently overwhelmed as people stocked up for expected quarantine periods, making going to the shop for essentials or snacks very difficult.

He added: “We wanted to give something small back to the people on the frontline facing this virus.

“My wife is a nurse at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital and I see first-hand how demanding that role is.

“The news is currently full of stories of tearful nurses and NHS staff who, after working long and tiring shifts, are unable to even get bread or vegetables on their way home.”

Focused on a low carbon footprint, 8DOL has an eco-friendly delivery system, using mainly bicycles to make the deliveries.

Customers can choose from over 500-plus supermarket products to be delivered direct to their homes, offices or even the library in under 28 minutes from the 8DOL warehouse.

The app – found by searching for 8DOL on your app store – is described as quick, simple and easy to use.

8DOL say that, once downloaded, customers can have their first orders within just 28 minutes of registering an account.

During the coronavirus outbreak 8DOL has also introduced a ‘No contact’ delivery method, so anyone vulnerable or self-isolating can get what they need delivered to their door.

NHS staff should visit www.8dol.co.uk/nhs to register for free delivery.