A Scots dad has developed a stab-proof clothing line in a bid to tackle knife crime attacks in the UK.
Craig Stirling, from Baillieston, has been working on the concept for four years and is set to unveil a prototype this week.
The 45-year-old father-of-two was left shaken after watching the horrific killing of soldier Lee Rigby, in London, on the news seven years ago.
He says the disturbing footage stuck with him and sparked the idea to create a garment accessible to the public and frontline workers.
The former property maintenance worker sourced a special fabric from two companies in Europe that allowed him to create a lightweight jacket which has no metal plates, kevlar, steel or ceramic.
His latest prototype is a body-warmer, designed to look like an every-day fashion item for children and adults.
Craig told The Record: “Every day we hear about more and more stabbings, assaults with bladed weapons and we hope to start reducing these numbers and save lives.
"This garment will prevent a blade from penetrating into the body, and will stop people from bleeding to death in street attacks.
"Bladed weapons, needles, broken glass and bottles are being used in violent attacks everyday.
"These stab-proof jackets will save lives.
Craig claims his clothing line has been tested against bladed weapons including machetes and meat cleavers to ensure it will provide protection to the wearer.
And Craig added: “My garments externally will look and feel no different to a normal bodywarmer anyone could be wearing on the streets, except ours will save lives in the event of an attack.”
Craig worked in property maintenance for 10-years before coming up with the idea.
He was inspired by the shocking events in London in May 2013 when off-duty soldier Lee Rigby was killed by two terrorists.
The 25-year-old was attacked by Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale near the Royal Artillery Barracks, in Woolwich.
The thugs used knives and a cleaver and attempted to behead him in front of shocked bystanders.
Craig said: “When I saw the footage of that attack I knew I had to do something and began my research.
The special fabric used in Craig’s clothing takes about three months to make and is based on a multi-layer system.
The Glasgow man couldn't give too many details away about the fabric creation as he is in the final stages of patenting the process.
He says the products are likely to be quite expensive initially, but as demand hopefully grows, the price will drop.
Craig also played down fears the jackets will be used by criminals.
He explained: “These products are designed specifically for the general public, emergency services, hospital workers and doormen.
“Criminals tend to source heavier bullet-proof style vests that can be worn under clothing and that can be bought very cheaply online.”
