Residents encouraged to continue Swap Shop success

Herefordshire Council is hoping residents will carry on the enthusiasm for exchanging unwanted items that was generated by the hugely successful Swap Shops.

Hereford as well as Worcester, Kidderminster and Bromsgrove all hosted events that were kicked off by the invincible energy of the Swap Shop king himself Keith Chegwin. More than 2,100 residents attended the sessions throughout January to trade a host of unwanted items.

Many said they would go again if more events were held and now the council's waste prevention team is encouraging anyone that wants to stage their own Swap Shop. Advice will be given to any school or community group that feels they can handle the raw enthusiasm that will be created.

Councillor John Jarvis, Herefordshire Council's cabinet member for the environment and strategic housing, said: "As an authority we are keen to encourage people not to send items to landfill and Swap Shops help to drive home the important message about re-using items. They are also fun, community events and I would appeal to everyone to hold their own Swap Shops."

Keith Chegwin's zest, enthusiasm and humour encouraged passing shoppers to pop into the first event which was held at Worcester Guildhall on January 5. In total, more than 2,100 members of the public came out in force to the four swap shops held in Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Young and old swapped an array of random items such as traditional favourites battleships to a Bag puss teddy, china plates to wine glasses. Old paperbacks, videos, bric-a-brac, small furniture and unwanted Christmas presents all found new homes.

Volunteers from local charities St Richard's Hospice and the Duckworth Trust generously gave their time to help support the Worcester event, as did the Newstarts furniture project in Bromsgrove. These charities demonstrate and promote the principle of re-use throughout their organisations.

To find more information about running your own Swap Shop or other re-use initiatives should call 01905 768227 or visit http://www.wastemissionimpossible.org.uk/.