Nimble-fingered volunteers have raised thousands of pounds for local charities making masks for use during the coronavirus crisis.

And West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin visited the helpers at their Malvern HQ last week (Friday July 24) to show her support for the charity venture.

The Malvern Marvellous Makers – started by Kathy Leather and Mandi Bradley – started out sewing scrubs for NHS workers and they have now expanded their efforts to make masks which are sold to raise money for the Haven Breast Unit and other good causes.

A production facility has been set up at Kathy Leather’s Copper Beech House bed and breakfast business on Avenue Road, Malvern where a group of local sewers get together to make the masks, which are then sold in local retail outlets in Malvern and Worcester.

Harriett said: “I’ve been really impressed with the way local groups have come together to help the community out during this coronavirus crisis.

“I wanted to take the time to visit the volunteers in person and say thanks for all they are doing meeting an important need and also raising money for good causes.

“Now that we are all required to wear masks when shopping, this will become an increasingly important product and it is heartening to be able to buy a locally-produced mask in a local store.

“I will be proudly wearing my mask when I visit local businesses and I hope people will be encouraged to do the same when they venture out to enjoy summer safely.”