A MOTHER and son have teamed up to make nearly 2,000 pieces of protective equipment for carers, nurses and doctors.

Maureen and Tom Lodge have been using 3D printers to make plastic face shields to help protect healthcare workers during the coronavirus pandemic.

The pair, who live in Rayne, have so far made 1,550 ear straps and more than 250 face shields.

The ear straps have been designed to ease the provide comfort to healthcare workers wearing face masks.

Tom, who is an electrical engineer at Broomfield Hospital, describes himself as an "avid" 3D printer enthusiast who has been able to mix his hobby and expertise to make the protective equipment.

He said: "I’m pleased I have been able to use what was previously just a hobby to now support my colleagues and other healthcare workers during this important time in the country.

"I hope we can inspire others to volunteer in whichever way they are able to their local hospitals, care homes and other essential services during this difficult period."

Tom and his mum had to find designs for the face shields online before putting posts up on social media advertising their products for free.

The masks have proved so popular, the pair say all three of their 3D printers are having to run non-stop just to keep up with demand.

The masks and ear straps have been donated to any interested parties, including care homes, district nurses, doctors’ surgeries, ambulance crews, police and the blood transfusion and transplant service.

Maureen, who works as a neighbourhood response officer at housing association Clarion, added: "It feels really important to our family that we do our bit in any way we can to help keep our health workers safe in this nationwide fight against the coronavirus.

"It's times like this you pull together and get creative about solutions."

Anyone wanting to contact Maureen and Tom about their PPE should send them a message on Facebook.