Whaley Bridge teens manufacturing personal protective equipment for frontline NHS and social care workers

Ben McIlveen and Bryn Barker, both 17, started working together from their respective homes after learning about the national shortage of vital equipment.

Bryn said: “It is clear that the NHS needs more PPE but that manufacturers were struggling to meet demand and I thought I could make a difference and knew Ben had a 3D printer.”

Ben had bought the printer when he won an Arkwright Scholarship, awarded to Britain’s top young engineers, and the pair managed to source a design schematic from the internet.

After setting up a crowdfunding page to pay for the plastic materials, friends, family and fellow students from the King’s School in Macclesfield raised £2,600.

Ben and Bryn were also able to buy a second printer so they could ramp up output to around 100 visors every 11 hours.

They also gained a sponsor who supplied a third printer and are now looking to buy a fourth printer as they step up their efforts.

Ben said: “It isn’t particularly labour intensive as the 3D printer does the work, but we have to set up the machines and then attach the acetate face visors and box them up for delivery.”

Bryn added: “We each spend a few hours every day working on the project, which supplements the home working programme we’ve had from King’s.

“It’s a shame to miss our schooling though we do seem to be getting through the work – but there are more important matters at the moment and we wanted to help.”

The pair have already shipped hundreds of visors across the region.

Bryn said: “We have given them to local GP practices and care homes and some to The Christie in Manchester.”

Ben added: “They should be worn together with more PPE but they do keep any spray off the face and have been warmly received.”

The story of Ben and Bryn’s efforts is the latest indication of business and community stepping in to join the battle against coronavirus.

To donate to the effort, go to www.gofundme.com/f/highpeakvisors.