A SWAP Shop style event this weekend will enable people to trade in unwanted items and pick up something new without spending a penny.

The New to You project was launched in Spennymoor as part of a wider initiative aimed at helping residents manage their money better.

Funded by housing provider livin, and organised by Success (North East), the event will be at Spennymoor Town Hall this Saturday, November 15.

People can exchange their unwanted goods for tokens which can be used to purchase other people’s pre-loved stuff.

The idea is for swappers to recycle clothes, shoes, school uniforms, toys, household goods, books and CDs they no longer need and instead get something they do want without having to hit the shops.

Swap events were initially to be held in schools around the town.

But following two hugely successful days at St Charles and Rosa Street Primary Schools earlier this year- where swappers estimate they saved £6,000- it was decided to hold a one-off event for the whole town.

Swappers should drop off their unwanted goods at the town hall tomorrow ( Friday, November 14) between 9am and 7pm and for each item, up to a total of 20, they will get one swap ticket to use on Saturday.

The swap event will then run from 10am to 3pm, after which any leftover goods will be donated to local charity shops.

Wendy Minhinnett, of Success (North East), said: “livin asked us to find ways of helping local people save money, this is something that has worked elsewhere and the first two held in Spennymoor schools were amazing successes.

“Things that you no longer use but are too good to throw away might be just what someone else is looking for so it is a great way to recycle, have a clear out and get what you need without spending money.

“Charity shops are behind it, at the end of the public New to You event there will be an hour for them to pick what they want to stock their shops to raise money for their cause.”

Rachael Swales, head of communities at livin, said: “This event shows strong partnership working at its best, making a difference to the lives of residents within our communities.”

She said organisers are passionate about the positive impact and generated savings the project can give residents, especially at this time of year.

All items must be clean and in good condition, should fit on a table top and clothing on hangers in possible. No broken items, electricals or underwear or swimwear can be swapped.

?