Coronavirus update: the latest news from East Midlands businesses

Derbyshire-based Permaroof, the importer and distributor of Firestone RubberCover roofing products, has launched the sale of a new disinfectant spray as it continues to diversify its product range in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ramsol Sanitiser Disinfectant Spray was developed by Quin Global, manufacturers of adhesive and tool systems, in just three weeks. It contains active biocides that are specifically designed for cleansing and disinfecting hard and soft surfaces. The unique combination has been tested as being effective against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses.

Adrian Buttress, managing director at Permaroof, said: “At the moment, we’re living in extraordinary times that are constantly changing as we learn more about the coronavirus and what the pandemic means for us as a business. Therefore, it’s of paramount importance that we are proactive and react to changing trade needs by diversifying the range of products we have on offer for our customers.

“We’ve been working closely with the team at Quin Global over recent weeks after they developed Ramsol and are delighted to assist launching their product to a wider market. It’s a product unlike anything else we offer at Permaroof that I believe will be a huge help to our customers in the months to come and going forward.”

Nottingham-based John Pye Auctions has joined forces with The Robin Hood Fund to run a charity auction raising money for those who need it most in city during the coronavirus crisis.

An list of items has been donated from across the county, including a signed England cricket shirt from Stuart Broad, an original script from Vicky McClure and a supermodel makeover with Victoria’s Secret model Alexina Graham. You can even become the Sheriff of Nottingham for the day.

The auction – which is now live and due to end at midday on Monday 27 April – has 24 items up for auction and will see all proceeds distributed to charities and causes for vulnerable people across Nottinghamshire.

Adam Pye, managing director at John Pye, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to support The Robin Hood Fund and run the auction. Due to the Government guidelines we had to lockdown our auction operations to the public and we took quick action to do so.

“We’re an online auction house so we’re well set up to support such efforts during the current crisis, with everything running remotely. We’re pleased we can put our platform to such good use and engage our database and the wider community of Nottinghamshire.”

Sheldon Miller, business development director at John Pye has co-ordinated the auction with the Robin Hood Fund, said: “I can also honestly say that this is one of the best auctions we’ve ever run, as the number of unique, money-can’t-buy items is incredible. How often do you get the opportunity to spend the afternoon with Nottingham Forest’s ‘Miracle Men’, be Sheriff of Nottingham for the day, star in a Panto or have a sleepover in Nottingham Castle?

“The items up for auction are very much centred on experiences, to give people something to look forward to once we return to a sense of normality. However, before we reach that point there are many vulnerable people and communities who need support, which is exactly what the money raised from the auction will do.”

The auction comes a month after the launch of the Robin Hood Fund, in which time the people of Nottingham have helped raise crucial funds to help those most in need in the city during these unprecedented times.

Simon Bristow of The Robin Hood Fund said: “Following an incredible initial response to The Robin Hood Fund from the people of Nottingham we hope the auction will maintain momentum and enable the fund to support even more people across the city.

“Thanks to the generosity of people and organisations in Nottingham we’ve been able to pull together an amazing collection of items and experiences that only our city could offer. There are a number of once-in-a-lifetime experiences for people to bid on and we’re already seeing huge interest in all the lots.”

To see the full auction list and place a bid to support The Robin Hood Fund, please visit https://www.johnpye.co.uk/auctions/john-pye-nottingham-robin-hood-fund-covid-19-charity/ 

Mary Keeling

Locked in with… Mary Keeling, business development manager, Blueprint Interiors

Who are you locked-in with?
I am locked in – in solitary – alone with no-one.

How has the lockdown and working from home been for you so far?
It’s been okay and I’ve adjusted well. Previously I’ve worked from home and so I already have a home-office in my conservatory overlooking my garden, so great views and comfortable surroundings. I’ve been able to focus on maintaining the business profile within the industry and used various media channels to keep in touch with clients, strategic partners and colleagues.

What has been the best thing about staying in?
The pace is slower – no racing to and from appointments. It’s a stroll to the office in the morning and a great kitchen for lunchtime snacks, all under one roof. Great facilities!

And what have you missed the most?
Human interaction – the media is great and probably the biggest asset under the current restrictions, however its only human nature to want and benefit form engagement face-to-face. As a business development manager, it’s all about relationship building and networking – this is always best done in the same room on a personal level.

What previously essential thing have you realised is not actually essential?
I actually haven’t missed any essential items but have realised what is essential – my health. Covid-19 is a threat to us all and it has made me very aware of living a healthier lifestyle and valuing the good health I do have. It’s provided a new positive focus for future attitudes and approaches to my life.

What are the changes you’ve made that you plan on continuing when restrictions are lifted?
To retain work/life balance – many evenings can be taken up with networking events and my days are fully booked up too leaving little time for personal interests. Although extended hours haven’t been expected of me, it inevitably has happened. I will be endeavouring to make that adjustment and continue to have that personal balance in the future.

Have you made progress on any of your bucket list items?
Not so much a bucket list but I’ve spent more time on hobbies – dressmaking has always been an interest, but little time to do it. My Project Lockdown is a new dress designed to be ready for my return to the office.

What is the first thing you will do when isolation ends?
Time with friends – sharing a bottle of wine (instead of drinking it all to myself!) over a nice meal. One other thing, and I’m sure other women may relate to this – I can’t wait to get my nails done!