Portsmouth Royal Navy veteran and Southern Health public governor urges public 'to do their bit' in Covid-19 pandemic

Michael North, who is also a public governor for Southern Health NHS Trust, is urging people to protect the NHS and keep to the restrictions.

The 84-year-old has drawn several cartoons in tribute to the frontline workers, including socially distanced seagulls on the seafront, and to bring a a bit of joy to their day.

He told The News: ‘Ever since I was a boy, and we moved from house to house during the war, there was only two main things to keep me entertained and that was the radio and comics.

‘I loved Disney and used to draw all the characters and it is something I have always done. I wanted to draw something for the NHS workers to bring a chuckle to them on a tough day and know that people are grateful for everything they do.

‘I think people need to realise that the NHS is not going to save us from the Covid-19 pandemic if everyone doesn’t do their bit by staying home and keeping to the restrictions.’

Last year Michael, who has been shielding, did 100 laps of his garden a day to fundraise for charity Brighterway, part of Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

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The challenge was inspired by Captain Sir Tom Moore, who raised nearly £33m for the NHS. Capt Sir Tom died aged 100 with Covid-19 on Tuesday.

Michael said: ‘I remember when the NHS was formed in 1948 and my mum told me we wouldn’t have to pay to see a doctor any more. It didn’t mean much at the time but I have stood by the NHS ever since and I think we should be so proud of it.

‘It really is the jewel in our country's crown but we have to treat it properly. We can’t just throw money at it and expect it to work. The money has to go to the right places.

‘The NHS across Hampshire is changing and every area is becoming more joined up. We all work better when we work together.’