A HOOK-based electronics manufacturing company has been given national recognition for its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Surface Technology International (STI) have been named as one of the face's of the government's 'GREAT inspirations' campaign.

It recognises those businesses that have gone "above and beyond" for customers and communities.

STI have been part of the Ventilator Challenge UK Consortium, working alongside the likes of Formula 1 racing teams and RAF Odiham to produce ventilators for the NHS.

The 30-year-old British company set up an assembly line at its Hook facility and took on and trained 70 additional staff to work on the project, with the team completing the 10,000th unit at the end of June.

Simon Best, STI Managing Director, said: “We are very proud to be part of this very important challenge, supporting the truly heroic work of our NHS in saving lives.

"Our teams and the wider STI Family, together with other local businesses, have come together, providing support, encouragement and assistance.

"Well done to everyone involved, a great job done."

Over 80 companies from a wide range of industries across the UK have been selected for the campaign, representing just a small proportion of the businesses that have adapted and delivered for their customers over the past few months.

Dan Ramsay, Director of the GREAT Campaign, said: “The UK is an incredibly innovative nation and the businesses selected for the GREAT Inspirations epitomise this.

"In an incredibly difficult period they have adapted and found new markets, new customers and new ways of operating as well as helping their communities and keeping them safe.”