Three bicycles were reportedly stolen on 30 and 31 March from outside the hospital.

Following enquiries by officers from the local neighbourhood policing team, a 23-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of theft and has been released under investigation.

Inspector Nick Lee, of Dorset Police, said, “We continue to support our NHS staff who are working tirelessly to treat those suffering from COVID-19 (coronavirus).

“Our investigation into these thefts is ongoing and I would urge anyone with information to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200046968. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.