The Rye Swap Shops, which encourage people to bring along unwanted things and take away what they would like began in 2012. Between then and 2020 they managed to shift ten tonnes of “stuff” away from landfill either by people taking it home or it being given to charity shops. It is wonderful to see the return of this great event almost three years to the day since the last one. Covid, of course, was mainly responsible for its hibernation but also it has taken some time to get everything planned with enough helpers to manage and organise the event after the break.
Mike Pepler, the founder of these events said: “It is very much a team effort and it is great to be back. We have refreshments here as well so people can socialise and also sit around and see what else is coming in. It helps not only with things not going to landfill but also enables people save money. In the past, one couple had just moved into a first home and went away with lots of things to help them start up. Sometimes people come across the most amazing things. Today someone has taken home a wonderful professional artist’s easel. I have known people pick up a tent then go away on a camping holiday. It makes such a difference to people’s lives and it is great for the planet. ”
Although it was a rather grey day, over a hundred and fifty people came on Saturday February 12, taking away over two hundred kgs of donated goods. The leftovers were taken to charity shops or recycled. Organisers Kyriacos, Mike and Tim were really pleased with the success of the day.
The next event is planned for Saturday June 17 at St Mary’s Centre (to be confirmed) and there will be further events at Tilling Green.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Rye News library .