MEMBERS of a social media group have joined forces to create PPE for key workers.

The ‘Sewing for our NHS at Wrexham Maelor Hospital and North Wales areas' Facebook page, which now has over 400 members, has been instrumental in ensuring that front line health workers in the area were equipped with personal protective equipment during the coronavirus pandemic.

Sara Mann, creator of the project and who is a textiles teacher at Darland High School, said: "It started when I found out my former neighbour is a ward sister on a Covid-19 ward at the Maelor, and I wanted to sew her and her colleagues PPE to help keep them safer and more comfortable.

"I then started the Facebook group when I realised many more NHS staff and care workers needed these items.

"Requests and drop-offs and all manner of things from material, patterns, elastic and buttons were made by the community, which led to our members creating the equipment.

"Sewers have dropped off their work at either my house or at various shops such as the village Co-ops in Marford and Gresford.

"Thousands of items have been made and mainly from upcycling bedding and unwanted cotton clothing, so it has all been good for the environment too, which is a bonus."

The group of sewers have so far created approximately 4,000 wash bags, hundreds of scrubs, 1,600 hats and 1,800 headbands, which are amongst the items that have been requested by hospital wards, care homes, charities, and ambulance services.

Mrs Mann, added: "I’m sure you’ll agree that this local army of sewers is another example of inspiring community action that this dreadful pandemic has created.

"There are thousands of carers that are very grateful for their handmade items just as we are profoundly grateful for their work."