MEMBERS of a church in Oswestry have come up with a way of helping those in need, by recycling ‘pre-loved’ school uniform.

Hope Church members have started the Rail Project – a project that encourages people take unneeded school clothes to various drop-off points around town, which will then be sold for just 50p a garment to those wanting to save money and recycle.

Helen Evans, community worker for the church, was on hand at the project’s pop-up shop on Wednesday in Market Gate, where various uniforms in different colours and sizes were available to be purchased.

“We work with Foodbank,” said Helen. “And the Foodbank made us aware of families that couldn’t afford school uniform, so that’s where the idea for the project came from.

“We contacted all the schools in town about the project and asked if they would have boxes for people to donate ‘pre-loved’ uniform.

“People have been able to donate their clothes at Wilkos in New Street, Holy Trinity CofE School and at the Meadows Primary School. I then go and empty the boxes whenever they’re full.

“We’re trying to tackle the stigma of buying recycled clothes and it helps with the current issues surrounding single-use items.

“It’s encouraging people to reuse and recycle. And it’s just to help families through tough times.”

Now Helen – who started collecting clothes in the summer holidays in time for the autumn term – has plans to continue with the project at various times during the year, making it easier for parents and guardians to have uniform ready for their children before each terms start.

“From now we’re just hoping to get the project up and running and maybe move onto winter coats and other items of clothing, with the aim of being able to help more people, more often,” Helen added.

“My plan now is to open the week of the school holidays so that families can be ready for the next term.”

The shop will also be open on Saturday between 10am and 12noon at Unit 4, Market Gate.