A MARQUEE company which would normally be gearing up for a busy event season is instead supporting the NHS and core businesses in the coronavirus crisis.

In the past week, the Bournemouth-based Mar-Key Group has installed a temporary reception area at Southampton General Hospital and begun building a drive-through Covid-19 testing centre in Shrewsbury.

The company, which manufactures marquees and other temporary structures, says similar commissions are coming in every day.

Group chief executive Ben Scroggie said: “As all of our temporary structures are in component parts, it’s very easy for us to re-purpose them to provide a fast solution to those who need us most right now.

“This includes the NHS with drive-through treatment facilities and pharmacy collection points, but also food retailers who need extra storage and warehouses to cope with increased demand.”

The company, headquartered in Throop, says is having one of its busiest ever trading periods.

It would usually be preparing for events but has instead been contacting supermarkets and suppliers to offer operational support.

Chairman David Tabb said: “As the only British manufacturer of temporary structures, we have such a diverse range of capabilities to assist in times like these.

“We can design and make anything from basic wet weather covers to insulated buildings that can stay in situ for 25 years or more.

“We have kit on the shelf ready to be deployed on the same day if necessary. Now, more than ever, is the time to buy British and support your local businesses.”

He added; “We are offering discounted rates to anyone who requires our services as a direct result of COVID-19 so hope that we can continue to support the NHS and many other businesses through these difficult time.”

Mar-Key Group designs and manufacturers temporary structures for event organisers and commercial clients across the UK and abroad. It has 28 years’ experience in the field, creating structures such as conference venues, temporary supermarkets, school buildings and warehouse space.