Behind the masks, new links are created

Essity Prudhoe Mill is backing independent shops and businesses in Prudhoe and has donated 24,000 face masks for them to give away to customers shopping local.

The masks were made at one of the company’s factories in Sweden that normally produces disposable nappies, and earlier this year switched to making single use masks for their employees across Europe.

But when the mill in Prudhoe found it had more than they needed to keep their own staff safe they decided to give away the rest to residents in the town.

Paul Murray, chairman of the Prudhoe Front Street Traders Committee has enlisted the help of more than 60 shops, leisure facilities, care homes, dental practices, restaurants, pubs and bars to help get the masks to the elderly and those most in need.

He said: “We were delighted to support Essity with the distribution of protective face masks, their generous donation has been greatly appreciated and really contributes to giving our shoppers the confidence to continue to shop locally.  I would also like to thank all the retailers that have supported with the distribution of these masks as their commitment to this has been outstanding.”

Mayor of Prudhoe, Cllr Tracy Gilmore championed the community spirit.  She said: “Essity is always looking for ways to support the town.  In April they donated toilet rolls for delivery to the vulnerable and now face masks.  We are extremely fortunate to have on our doorstep a large multinational employer with a large heart and linking up with the Prudhoe Front Street Traders Group demonstrates how we can all work together.  The businesses who are part of Front Street are best placed to reach out to residents and it is wonderful that Essity recognise this.”

(Photograph credit: Tony Bradley – Public Relations Consultancy)

Paul Murray (Prudhoe Front Street Traders Association) with Cath Frost (Essity)