A DORSET man is making face shields to help stop the coronavirus spread in Madagascar.

Steve Moatt, based on Portland, is using his creative skills to make PPE for frontline workers, not just in the UK but also in Madagascar.

Ordinarily Mr Moatt spends his working days making boat sails, but since his company, Moatt Sails, is currently closed due to the coronavirus crisis he’s decided to swap sails for shields.

Mr Moatt wanted to use the skills and materials available to him to help NHS frontline workers during the current crisis, but was also very aware of the crisis that is unfolding in Africa, and in particular, Madagascar, a country very close to his heart.

In order to tick both these boxes, Mr Moatt is making and selling face shields to those who need them here in the UK, with all the income generated being donated to the Masks for Madagascar appeal.

Masks for Madagascar is a charity which works with local authorities to create and distribute messaging on social distancing and sanitation to the Madagascan public. They are also providing key workers and those most vulnerable with mask sin an attempt to prevent the spread as much as possible.

Mr Moatt said: “Now more than ever, Madagascar, noted by the World Bank as the poorest country in the World, needs our help.

“On the island there are few health services, many people’s immune systems are already compromised, mortality rates are among the worst in the World and communication systems, to tell people about the virus and how to avoid it, are poor. It is predicted as much as 10% of the population in Madagascar may die from coronavirus.”

To purchase a £3 face shield, contact Mr Moatt at skmoatt@btconnect.com. Alternatively, you can make a donation directly to Masks for Madagascar at www.madagascar.charitycheckout.co.uk.