Broom space scientist on mask-making mission to protect key workers

Dr Simon Sheridan, 47, from Broom, has had two 3D printers working non-stop for three weeks in order to create PPE for those in need.

His visors have been sent to local teams including pharmacies in Langford and Shefford, Biggleswade Health Centre, Sue Ryder nurses and chiropodists, while he is currently printing some for a care home in Biggleswade.

Dr Sheridan said: “I think, like everybody else, I was a little bit disappointed that the frontline staff didn’t have access to PPE and the more I read about it, the more I thought, ‘This is crazy’.

“I have a 3D printer at home. We’re just doing a small little bit. There are thousands of people up and down the country doing it. I’ve had the printers working 24/7 for three weeks running flat out.”

Dr Sheridan is a scientist and had previously used his printer to create prototypes of spacecraft parts for the European Space Agency.

He has previously worked on the Rosetta Lander and Beagle 2 Lander projects, although he has had to buy a second machine to cope with the demand for face visors.

Simon said: “Everyone is doing an amazing job on the front line.We’re doing a tiny, tiny, tiny amount to help.

“Anyone can download the files and print them if they have the technology. They were designed by a European man and the whole world is printing them.

“The visors are made from such simple, humble material, but it stops people getting infected and saves lives.”

Simon is part of a number of groups, including the ‘Print For Victory’ team, who have social media pages so people canoffer their services.

Those involved can download the files which show the headband design to be printed, and then order the acetate (visor) and elastic online.

Simon and his wife, Louisa, have been fitting the pieces together whilst wearing gloves, before posting them.

The couple would like to say thank you to everyone who has donated, including Cllr Hayley Whitaker, who has offered Simon a Ward Councillor Grant.

To donate: https://www.gofundme.com/f/visors-for-nhs-and-health-workers