A new company set up to sell antigen tests at what was said to be a cut rate has launched a giveaway scheme to help the less fortunate.

Lateral Flow Bermuda, founded by Jonathan Makanjuola, a consultant urologist, and Craig Brown, the managing director of Apex Physio, said it was the first firm of its type to offer a donation scheme so that buyers could subsidise tests for the most vulnerable members of the public.

Dr Makanjuola said: “It has been heart-warming for us to see fellow Bermudians embrace the act of giving to help others during these hard times. We wanted to take this opportunity to inform and thank all those that have made personal contributions.”

Mr Brown added: “We continue to receive donations, and to date these donations have been directed to those most vulnerable and on the front lines. We wish to thank Fidelis and Lancashire, both of whom were early adopters of our donation drive”

The company said people had donated more than 5,000 tests and in excess of $5,000 in discounts gifted by companies and individuals.

Tests have been given to cancer charity PALS, the Bermuda Hospitals Board, the Bermuda Diabetes Association and the Transformational Living Centre for homeless families, as well as other organisations.

Lateral Flow Bermuda said it offered a pack of five tests for $26.25 and a single test for $5.85.

The firm thanked courier firm DHL for its support as “a strong ally and global partner with us on this initiative”.

To order tests, e-mail hello@lateralflowbda.com or visit www.lateralflowbda.com.