Rydal Penrhos’ assistance with providing PPE during the coronavirus pandemic reached a significant milestone earlier this week.

Design technology teacher Mark Harmsworth, technician James Bonser and Sixth Form pupil Jamie Lavery have been working exceptionally hard to produce protective masks, which have been distributed to NHS staff and keyworker facilities across the region.

Thanks to a sterling effort from the trio, they have now managed to reach the 1,000 mark from the project, which represents a significant achievement and one that has benefitted the community considerably.

Jamie has sourced additional 3D printers from various sources, including parent and Clogau managing director, Ben Roberts.

A crowdfunding page set up regarding the project reached its initial target of £2,500 thanks to a series of generous donations, with the Friends of Rydal Penrhos School parent group also contributing an additional £1,000 to the cause.

Work will continue in the coming weeks on the project, which is now producing 75 masks per day on average.

The initiative is one of many ways Rydal Penrhos has joined the Covid-19 fight since the school went into its remote online learning phase following social distancing measures implemented by the government.

Anyone with any materials to spare can email SJames@rydalpenrhos.com with the relevant information.

Those requiring PPE can also email Miss James with their specific request.

Those wishing to donate to the project can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/sarah039s-campaign-for-rydal-penrhos-limited.