North-east residents are being encouraged to “be inspired” over the festive period and think about recycling unwanted items rather than sending them to landfill.
Peterhead’s 2ReUse “upcycling” scheme has invited local people to donate unwanted or rarely used gifts and household items which can then be upgraded and sold on.
Based in the town’s Skelton Street, the initiative offers a wide range of products including “shabby chic” furniture, vintage collectibles and curiosities.
There is also an opportunity to have a go at transforming an old piece of furniture into a refurbished treasure.
Manager Brenda Campbell said: “We often have items donated that might not be quite in fashion at the moment, but, through the shabby chic work, our talented volunteers are creating amazing pieces which would grace any home – or garden.
“We concentrated initially on smaller pieces – for example, coffee tables, chairs and cabinets – but we now find the sky really is the limit.
“We have a range of outdoor furniture, ideal for displaying plants and flowers, which has already proved popular after we delivered them to the shop.”
The project has a small staff and group of volunteers who operate across Buchan and the north-east. The team is now looking to fund a part-time trainer to pass on crafting skills.
Earlier this year, 2ReUse benefited from a £23,000 donations from the Morrisons Foundation which will fund the purchase of a new van.
The group is the holder of two Green Apple Awards for innovative work in the community and the environment.