VITAL ventilators and coronavirus testing kits are now being manufactured by a Caerphilly company.

Brynmawr-based Performance Masterbatches Ltd has dedicated 20 per cent of its production line to the fight against the virus, producing testing kits and ventilators for the NHS.

Managing director of the firm, which puts colour in plastic, Lawrence Watts said: “Performance Masterbatches Ltd is proud to be helping. Our coloured compound is being used to manufacture ventilator parts and test kits.

“Demand is escalating on a daily basis.

“A big thank you must go to our hardworking staff during this uncertain time.”

The company started out making products for food packaging and now produces colour and compound for a wide range of plastic uses, including in the automotive sector, where it counts Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover and Honda among its customers, as well as Nescafe – for whom they make the colour for the Gold Blend lids.

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Ken Skates, the Welsh Government's minister for economy, transport and North Wales, said: “Coronavirus is a national public health emergency, which affects each and every one of us.

“The production of ventilators and testing kits is crucial. Performances Masterbatches is responding to our call for help.

“I would like to thank everyone at the company for the significant contribution they are making, using their expertise and experience.

“Working together, we will save lives.”