Good news stories

Dorset Magazine’s editor chooses some uplifting news stories that have caught her eye

- Helen Stiles

FROM SAILS TO SHIELDS

Steve Matt normally makes sails for boats through his company Matt Sails in Portland. But with his business currently closed, Steve has turned his skills to making face shields for frontline workers. These are not only helping those in this country but also people thousands of miles away in Madagascar.

Having cycled around part of the country, Steve fell in love with Madagascar, but he also saw the problems it faces. He has since been raising funds to help the people and environment on the island through the charity SEED Madagascar (madagascar.co.uk). “There are few health services on the island,” said Steve, “and because the communication systems (to tell people about coronavirus and how to avoid it) are poor, it is predicted as much as 10% of the population may die from it.”

Steve is making and selling face shields here in Dorset, for £3 each. All income generated from their sale is being donated to the Masks for Madagascar appeal, which helps provide face masks to those on the island. To buy a face shield contact Steve on [e-mail] or call 07833 383221. Steve is also hoping to raise £500£1000 to buy further materials to make more shields. If you would like to support this iniative then please call Mark at SEED Madagascar on 07909 512091.

CARER SUPPORT DORSET TO RUN TWO VIRTUAL CAFES