A MUM and her daughter have a special reason for wanting to make face coverings now they are compulsory on public transport.

Emily Arthur, 15, got her sewing machine out to produce facemasks a few weeks ago after watching a YouTube video.

She showed her mum Caroline and they decided to put their new skills to good use and raise money for a charity close to their hearts.

Emily’s cousin Lewis Mangan died in September 2016 after crashing his car into a tree along the A417 near Wantage.

Thames Valley Air Ambulance had tried to save the 20-year-old’s life.

Caroline, of Highworth, said: “It’s been a real struggle for our whole family.

"It happened early in the morning and he hit the only tree there. The air ambulance went out to try and save his life but unfortunately he passed away.

“My daughter started making facemasks with her sewing machine and she showed me. From there we went out to get material, we made some more and sold them to raise money.

“ I’m so proud of her. The idea was just wonderful, she’s brilliant.”

Caroline’s mum Shirley had taught Emily how to sew.

Together they have raised over £1,000 for the charity.

Emily said: “I was watching a video on YouTube and it inspired me to make my sister Amy a facemask because she works at a pharmacy.

“I showed my mum and my family and it just went from there, really. It’s been brilliant that people have been so supportive. It’s definitely helped cure my boredom.

“It just means a lot that we can give back to the air ambulance, who try so hard.”

To buy a facemask direct message Caroline on Facebook at www.facebook.com/caroline.arthur.963