South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has praised firm Berry bpi, which has a factory in Dumfries, after it was revealed the company is adapting its existing manufacturing facilities and investing in new equipment in order to provide localised production and supply of much needed PPE (personal protective equipment) for NHS workers.

Berry bpi is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of polythene film and it hopes by early May the Dumfries site, along with three others across the UK, will be manufacturing around 200,000 special fluid-resistant, long-sleeve apron-style gowns and over six million standard disposable aprons every week.

Berry bpi is a long-standing supplier to the NHS, currently producing the majority of clinical waste sacks used in UK hospitals.

Local MSP Colin Smyth said: “Our NHS and health and care sector are facing a completely unique situation as we continue to tackle Covid-19 and it is vitally important that those working closely with people who have, or may have, the virus are as protected as possible.

“The correct PPE is just one step in keeping health care workers safe and I would like to take this opportunity to praise Berry bpi and all its staff in Dumfries and beyond, for making these changes in order to produce some of the equipment required.

“We are still in the middle of a terrible, and often very frightening situation, but it is fantastic to see some local businesses really stepping up to the mark to help do what they can to support our NHS and health and social care sector.”