A Wellington woman who started making face masks for members of her family has now raised more than £1,000 for charity.

Jeanette Bird worked as a sewing machinist with local bedding firm Relyon for more than 40 years until retiring in December 2017.

Now she has put those skills to good use during the Covid-19 pandemic by boosting the coffers of St Margaret’s Somerset Hospice, based in Taunton.

“It all began when I made a mask or two at home and then members of the family asked for them,” Jeanette said.

“I thought I’d try selling some for a worthy cause and the hospice is close to my heart as one of my closest friends, Marian Church, spent her last days there.

“They provide such wonderful care and yet have to be self-funded, so need every penny they can get.”

Jeanette started advertising the masks on social media, which has proved popular, and was also indebted to Tim Potter butchers, which agreed to sell them for her from their shop in Fore Street.

“They have been great and keep me posted when they are running low,” Jeanette added.

“I originally hoped to raise £500 but then raised the target to £1,000, which I passed recently, and so I am going to keep going.”

The masks are in a wide range of styles and patterns – and Jeanette has even ordered Christmas material ready for a festive rush.

If you would like to buy a mask – or two...or more – they are priced £3 each. Jeanette can be contacted by phoning 01823 661697.