Invention is a winner (From Penarth Times)

Invention is a winner

10:03pm Thursday 20th April 2006 in Latest news

A PENARTH woman s efforts to keep her little ones clean has won her a top award.

Melissa Edmunds scooped a gold award for her ingenious invention, Safesip, at the 34th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva.

Melissa s winning invention is a biodegradable, lightweight cover that prevents drinks from spilling or being contaminated by insects, drugs or germs.

She said: I originally came up with the idea of an anti-spill device to overcome the problem of my two children, who have grown out of toddler cups, regularly spilling their drinks.

The Safesip can be stretched so that it fits any size glass or bottle and can be conveniently carried around with you so is great for covering your drinks while travelling.

Melissa said that her invention allows people to drink while lying down, so would be extremely useful for hospital patients or those who have medical conditions that require special assistance.

Melissa was awarded two additional prizes for her Safesip spill cover invention - the City of Geneva award and the prize from the Korean Association of Women Inventors.

She was one of 12 exhibitors promoted by the Welsh Assembly Government-funded Wales Innovators Network (WIN).

Other inventions supported by the WIN picked up three golds, two silvers and five bronze awards.

Andrew Davies, WAG Minister for Enterprise, Innovation and Networks, commented: Congratulations to all WIN members at their year s event.

Wales has consistently enjoyed considerable success at what is the world s most prestigious invention show and this year s achievements reinforce our reputation as an innovative country on the global stage.