Carlisle-based Grafix Signs has been at the forefront of the fight against coronavirus.

The Kingstown firm has been manufacturing and fitting bespoke perspex screens for a variety of businesses throughout the county and beyond.

It said it was able to respond quickly by using its advanced technology and experience in plastics engineering, which enabled it to customise, design and install safety screens in a short timeframe.

Nick Ormiston, managing director, said: “The first enquiry came from a medical practice in Dumfriesshire in February and we were able to design, make and install very quickly.

“As a result word got out that we were not just a signmaker and more orders followed.”

Grafix Signs used its hi-tech computerised and laser machinery to produce the bespoke shapes designed to meet each of its customer’s requirements.

Nick added: “Some of the shapes were quite complex due to the individuality of the location and involved producing corner units and curved screens.”

Customised brushed stainless steel feet and brackets were also laser cut and welded to allow many of the units to be free standing.

The company has now made hundreds of screens for a diverse range of customers – from a single one for the nearby Kingstown Post Office to more than 100 individual screens for Lloyd Motor Group.

Nick Ormiston added: “It looks like we will be making safety screens for some time to come, alongside all of our other day-to-day business of sign design and manufacture, vehicle graphics and digital print and much more.

“However, like everyone else, I’ll be happy when all of this is behind us.”