A North West healthcare product manufacturer has donated specially-made face coverings to charities across Bolton and Chorley.

Vernacare have produced the coverings with the same fabric used to make tubular bandages.

Over 500 of them have been donated to charities including Help the Homeless and Storehouse Pantry.

During the pandemic the company has delivered supplies throughout the UK and across the world.

James Steele, chief executive officer of Vernacare, said: "We are extremely proud to have been supporting frontline healthcare workers and, as people try to navigate through the new normal, we wanted to do even more and give something back to charities in our local communities.

"We looked at how our existing materials could be used to make face coverings and the fabric used in our tubular bandages seemed to be the perfect fit.

"We have evolved our manufacturing processes to create the new face coverings and a limited number have gone into production.

"Our MultiStretch Technology means they are breathable, lightweight and don’t irritate the skin and, because they are washable, they are a sustainable product.

"We have already given these face coverings to our staff, suppliers and customers and have had great feedback, so we hope they will help charity volunteers carry on with their important work in the local community."