Coronavirus update: the latest news from East Midlands businesses

A company in Nottinghamshire that makes parts for the automotive industry has offered its premises, 45 staff and equipment for the production of PPE or any other essential products in the fight against Covid-19.

Interflex 2000 in Langar has temporarily furloughed its production staff as the company’s customers, which are mainly UK vehicle manufacturers, have also ceased production.

In normal times, Interflex make and supply a range of NVH and sealing solutions for vehicles including door seals, interior trim, under carpet and boot seals. They also coat and cut materials such as the fabric used for arm rests.

This means that the company has equipment that could be useful in a range of contexts, from storage to manufacturing, such as making components for sound absorption in ventilator equipment.

Managing director Jim Griffin said: “In the current situation, we are unable to manufacture for customers, but it seems a waste to have equipment and staff available at a time when the country urgently needs products that we could help supply. If nothing else, we have a large facility so can utilise space to help reconfigure packages or offer storage as required.”

Derbyshire golf, hotel and leisure complex, Morley Hayes is offering its members a free membership for the 2021 – 2022 season.

The complex on Main Road in Morley is making the gesture to thank golfers for their continued loyalty as they are currently unable to use the facilities due to the current coronavirus pandemic.

Existing members who have prepaid and those golfers who continue to pay via direct debit or standing order will receive a complimentary membership for the 2021 – 2022 season.

Andrew Allsop, managing director of Morley Hayes said: “It’s unfortunate that our members cannot get full use of their golf membership because of the current lock-down.

“To thank them for their loyalty, we want to give existing members a complimentary membership for the 2021 – 2022 season, so they can enjoy our superb facilities once the lock-down is over.”

Richard Sutton

Locked in with… Richard Sutton, managing director, NG Chartered Surveyors

Who are you locked in with?
My 15-year-old son

How has the lockdown and working from home been for you so far?
Not really a problem, we were fully geared up for remote working anyway and a lot of my time is away from the office in normal circumstances.

What has been the best thing about staying in?
Netflix!

And what have you missed the most?
My team, and in particular Sunny, Jude and Jimmy – I knew that I cared about them but I didn’t realise just how much I care. Non-work related just being able to go out for a breakfast somewhere like Taste on Clumber Road in West Bridgford – we want Franco back asap! And being able to go out for a drink with friends and family.

What previously essential thing have you realised is not actually essential?
Shopping for shopping’s sake – you just don’t need that much stuff.

What are the changes you’ve made that you plan on continuing when restrictions are lifted?
Massive mindset changes, reinvent yourself within your company to do the job better. Reinvention is the key. We have already had discussions with staff who want to continue with more remote working even when Covid is over as it really works for them and you know what, it works for them and it works for the company. And relentless positivity. On a personal level continue to support all the local shops that have kept us going in particular the grocers, butchers, fishmonger and bakers on Melton Road – don’t all run back to the supermarkets.

Have you made progress on any of your bucket list items?
It’s been brilliant to spend time with my son as normally he doesn’t want to be anywhere near me. This is really precious as before to long they will be all grown up and gone.

What is the first thing you will do when isolation ends?
Work-wise: take the team out for lunch. Home-wise: go out for dinner somewhere local and independent.