AN ICONIC Island distillery has started producing hand sanitiser to help combat the widespread shortage.

The Isle of Wight Distillery has turned its equipment over to producing the gel in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council on an entirely not for profit basis.

The hand sanitiser produced will be given to institutions and vulnerable individuals who are in most need of it.

Xavier Baker, of the Isle of Wight Distillery, said: "We’re seeing many Island businesses responding to the crisis with generosity, ingenuity and community spirit.

"We hope to be of service to our local community at this challenging time."

Distillery co-founder, Conrad Gauntlett, said: "Putting something back locally has always been part of our motivation for building the distillery and our brands.

"In these difficult times, we’re glad we can do something so immediate and critical to the health of the Island."