A GROUP of volunteers running "3D Print Farms" across three counties - including Carmarthenshire - has seen its face visor design approved by Hywel Dda University Health Board.

Frontline 3D Print Farm is the collective name given to the team which has over 40 volunteers running "farms" to make the shields, which have passed clinical and engineering tests.

More than 10,000 protective shields have been made to date with farms running around the clock to keep up with demand.

Rob Venus, Cwmaman Community Development Officer and Amman Valley MakerSpace project lead, said: "This design is the only 3D printed face shield to have passed tests as being reusable and suitable for decontamination which helps to ensure items are there when needed and the supply won't be destroyed after a single use."

One of the team leads who created the shield, Dr Dimitris Pletsas, from Swansea University, re-designed a shield initially used in New York.

The design sees the shield kept away from the face and can be used with goggles and respirator.

But concerns have been raised over non-approved designs with many manufacturers unable to distribute their shields to NHS staff.

Dr Pletsas, from Nantgaredig, said: "It is important that the visor is closed from the top, which is where other designs are flawed.

"All shields are sent for decontamination before distribution to NHS and care staff.

"The materials we use mean the shields can be cleaned safely and reused."

The team is keen to grow its 3D farm and welcomes collaborations with other designers.

Rob added: "We can work with them to ensure the frontline care workers get suitable equipment as quickly as possible. We will provide full support and access to the latest files."

Showing his support County Council Chairman and Cwmaman Town Councillor Kevin Madge said: "I would like to thank Rob Venus for the work he has done locally in the Amman Valley. It is pleasing to see one of our officers going the extra mile. With his help the nurses at Amman Valley hospital were provided with safety visors to help protect them. The whole county should be proud of the work the team at the 3D print farms are doing for our frontline workers and continue to support the scheme."

To meet the growing demand, a Go Fund Me page has been sent up, you can donate here.

You can follow the project by visiting www.facebook.com/ammanvms