A WOMAN who missed being able to hug her mum during the coronavirus pandemic has created a “barrier coat” so people can embrace their loved ones.

Sunil Samra has launched the ‘Hugsie’ – a coat made from recycled plastic with an extra large hood and extendable sleeves.

The coat’s design means there is space to pull the hood up over the head so the wearer can hug someone without skin-to-skin contact.

Sunil, a registered pharmacist from Seven Dials, in Brighton, is determined to get people hugging again with her invention.

She said: “The inspiration for the Hugsie was my mother, Kulwant.

“I’ve always been cautious and protective of her as she has asthma and a heart problem. Every winter she gets a cold and has to go on steroids.

“She’s in her eighties and is classed as vulnerable.

“Earlier in the year when I went to see her it was such a weird distant feeling when I couldn’t give her a hug.

The Argus: Sunil wearing the 'Hugsie' coatSunil wearing the 'Hugsie' coat

“I started looking for something like the Hugsie but there was nothing on the market, so I decided to create my own.”

Sunil took time out from her work as a pharmacist to focus on producing the Hugsie.

She said: “Finally it’s here and I have big plans. I want people to be able to keep their loved ones safe.

“I’ve designed it with clear, recycled plastic so you can see people’s expressions. The coat is recyclable but after you’ve used it you can wash it in warm soapy water and leave it to dry, so it’s reusable.

“It’s so amazing to have that hug again.”

The Hugsie is designed as a “barrier coat” to protect clothing and skin from touching and is not a form of Personal Protective Equipment, Sunil added.

The coat comes in one size with a waist-tie and is priced at £10.

Sunil said: “The sleeves are long enough so you can pull them down over your hands and the hood is big and wide open at the top, so you can pull it over your head and still have enough air.

“You wear the hood down while distancing, then before you hug you cover yourself and have a good old cuddle.

“It’s been proven that hugging releases oxytocin, so there are health benefits as well as emotional ones, and a lot of people are suffering from anxiety at the moment.

"I’m trying to bring some happiness back to the community.”

For more information, visit www.shieldsie.com.