The NHS has been using Col U's stadium for staff training during the coronavirus pandemic.

Colchester United said when it became obvious the football club would have to be closed, chairman Robbie Cowling stepped in to offer the JobServe Community Stadium to the NHS.

The offer was taken up and the site has been used for NHS staff training.

U’s general manager Tim Waddington said: “Robbie immediately offered the stadium to the NHS, asking if it could potentially be utilised for anything they required during this challenging time.

“We’re delighted that they have been in this week, and we hope that we can help them for as long as it takes to beat the virus.

“Most of our staff are safe at home so the stadium is almost empty – it’s great that the football club can do its bit by offering it as a venue and be part of the solution, however small that part might be.”