Sheppey company Checkmate is using volunteer furloughed staff to make face masks for the UK.

The firm, founded by Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Kent Paul Auston and now part of the international Pure Safety Group (PSG), has converted part of its factory in New Road, Sheerness, to manufacture personal protection equipment in the fight against coronavirus.

PSG's chief innovation officer Oliver Auston said: "Being able to do this important work is a positive opportunity for our company and teams.

"As our world looks to phase into a new normal, allowing businesses to reopen and individuals to congregate, people will be wearing masks.

"This is an opportunity for our team members to stay busy while making an impact on their community. After all, we are in the safety business.”

The company normally makes lifting gear and safety equipment for those working at heights.

Mr Auston said: "We have been able to quickly ramp up production because we have product designers, sewing machines and manufacturing capabilities from making our core products."

The non-medical masks are being made in conjunction with MakeMasksuk.org.

Mr Auston said: "We identified the need for non-medical masks to help protect essential workers such as those in food manufacturing and distribution, food retail, delivery services and the community at large."

Gavin Cleary, chief executive officer of economic development organisation Locate in Kent, said: "We are privileged to have businesses in the county showing the innovation and drive which will be vital when we emerge on the other side of this pandemic.”

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