Chefs donating jackets to turn into facemasks

The appeal was launched by the Culinary Association of Wales (CAW), and Arwyn Watkins, the organisation's president, says demand for the jackets is far outstripping supply.

“Chefs' jackets are the perfect material to be made into masks, scrubs bags, headbands and caps for front line staff in care homes and working in the community,” he explained.

“We have jackets coming in from across the UK and many are brand new, made for competitions that are unable to be held because of the lockdown. Demand for jackets is far outstripping supply.

“Some chefs who work in colleges are very frustrated because they want to support the appeal, but their surplus jackets are locked away in places they are unable to access. The response has been brilliant.

More Covid-19 coverage:

• See the latest coronavirus stories from Shropshire and beyond

• Coronavirus: Latest number of deaths and confirmed cases in Shropshire, Telford and Mid Wales

• Star Neighbours - how you can give and get help locally

“The jackets are made from material that’s ideal because its workwear that withstands a high heat for sterilisation and washing.”

Chefs are being asked to post their clean, spare jackets to Trailhead Fine Foods, Unit 13 Severn Farm Enterprise Park, Welshpool, Powys SY21 7DF, where they are collected and distributed to people who convert them into valuable items for front line staff.

Alternatively, chefs who have access to a sewing machine, are being encouraged to make the items themselves for carers in their community after receiving instruction.

Mr Watkins expects more than 200 jackets to be donated to the appeal, which has spread on social media around the globe via the Worldchefs organisation. Several countries, including Brazil, are now copying the appeal.

In addition to the appeal, the CAW is keeping the wider public entertained with social media videos by chefs showing how to produce Welsh Lamb dishes during the lockdown. Dishes using Welsh Beef, pork and other meats will follow.

People can follow the series of videos at facebook.com/CulinaryAssociationofWales.CymdeithasCoginiolCymru