A TEACHER from Wem is helping tackle the spread of Covid-19 by unveiling a new invention.

Sally Jordan, who teaches at Newtown CE Primary School, has created the Washaway 20, a device she says is a cheap solution to extra hand washing stations for schools or businesses.

The product features a paper roll holder, paper towel dispenser and a bin in one unit as well as a water container and a tray for holding hand soap.

Sally says the product, named for the 20 seconds it takes to wash hands and the year of its creation, was created in conjunction with pupils from her class over the last six weeks.

According to Sally, the idea for the invention came after being concerned about the small number of handwash stations at her school.

"Back in May I was concerned about the small capacity of my school hand washing facilities for my class of children and I wanted hands to be washed before entering school," said Sally. "This is how the Washaway 20 evolved.

"Over the past six weeks my class have worked with it and helped evaluate it, to a product we are all excited about.

"The Washaway 20 was named to represent washing away from the sink and also to wash away the germs, the number 20 represents the amount of time needed for hand washing – 20 seconds – and the year it was created.

"One of the original prototypes was accompanied by a bin and a pile of paper towels, this evolved to a paper roll holder, paper towel dispenser and a bin in one unit.

"The pedestal unit is easy to move, for greater flexibility and mobility. The Washaway 20 is so handy for forest school and outdoor learning activities too.

"The water container holds enough water for 30, 20 second hand washes and I have also developed a wall mounted version for greater permanency.

"I appreciate schools/clubs/businesses may not have a huge amount of funds to support the need for extra hand washing so this gives a cheap and effective solution."