My Property Box boss salutes NHS heroes with free drinks offer

A lettings agency founder provided free refreshments to NHS staff to acknowledge their selfless efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ben Quaintrell, managing director of My Property Box, served teas and barista-style coffees to workers at Darlington Memorial Hospital.

Ben hit upon the idea after a conversation with one of his landlords, who works as a paramedic in the town.

After approaching Adoro Caffe, which is based in Staindrop, near Barnard Castle, County Durham, Ben arranged for a coffee cart to be positioned outside the hospital between 9am and 5pm yesterday (Wednesday, April 29).

With strict social distancing measures in place, NHS staff were treated to free beverages with members of the public invited to pay for drinks, with their money donated to health service funds.

 

 

“I, along with the rest of the country, am in awe of anyone involved with the NHS, from cleaners and porters to nurses and consultants,” said Ben, pictured above, second from left.

“What they do day in, day out, is hugely valued by the public, as is witnessed during the weekly Clap for our Carers.

“I, and all the staff, wanted to show our gratitude for their hard work in extremely difficult circumstances; I hope the simple gesture of buying them a cuppa made them feel appreciated and helped them through their day.

“It was a privilege to serve a few brews myself and at the same time get the opportunity to thank some of the NHS staff personally for all they are doing,” added Ben, who runs My Property Box from a base in Darlington.

Pat Chambers, charity manager at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, described Ben’s actions as a “much appreciated and very thoughtful offer.”

She added: “We’re very well catered for, but it was lovely for colleagues to take a short break outside and pick up a barista coffee at the same time.

“Donations to our charity help fund amazing projects that enhance the great work of the trust, helping to ensure patients and staff receive the support they need during these challenging times.

“Thank you to Ben and the team for helping to make a difference.”