Environmental campaigners are holding events at which people can take away pre-loved clothing and toys for free.

Climate Action Middlesbrough is hosting the events to mark both Global Recycling Day on March 18 and International Day of Zero Waste, on March 30.

The “Wear It, Don’t Waste It” events are aimed at those most in need, but the group welcomes everyone with an interest in reducing the amount of clothing that ends up in landfill.

The events are on Saturday, March 23, from 10am to 3pm at the Resource Centre, Meath Street, Middlesbrough, and on Wednesday, March 27, from 4pm to 7pm at The International Centre, 7 Abingdon Road, Middlesbrough.

Darlington and Stockton Times: Tammy Ward, one of the organisers, centre, with people trying on the clothes

Organiser, Tammy Ward, a project officer for Climate Action Middlesbrough, said: “Growing up I had cousins who were a little older than me, and every so often I would be gifted the clothes that they had outgrown. I was always thrilled when these bundles of clothes arrived, at the time I didn't realise this was anything to do with sustainability.

“I know that for some there is a stigma attached to wearing second-hand clothes, but the planet’s resources are not infinite, so reusing, repurposing and recycling makes sense for everyone irrespective of their bank balance, income or job status. I hope that these events will celebrate being a sustainable shopper, bust the second-hand rose stigma whilst saving local people money and reducing the amount of clothes that end up in landfill."

Climate Action Middlesbrough is a five-year project that is trying to reduce the town's carbon footprint.

Coordinator, Matthew Allen said: “We can all take climate action, whether that’s by getting involved in something in our communities like tree planting, or something simpler like supporting these events. For most people, their attendance will be about the clothes themselves – and that’s okay. These are tough times for a lot of people and we’re happy to be helping in some small way. By coming along, they’ll be saving clothes from waste, and as such having a direct impact on Middlesbrough’s carbon footprint."

As well as the clothes giveaway, the events will host a number of other organisations who will talk to attendees about other activities and offers that fight climate change. Sam Garside from Middlesbrough Council’s Environmental Sustainability team will be encouraging people to recycle more, and there will also be a small-scale Repair Café by Guisborough Eco Group. People can bring along clothes in need of minor repairs and have them fixed for free.

The Katwalk Kimberley’s, who deliver sewing lessons to the community and use ethically sourced fabric from the UK, will also be present, and a tailor will be giving clothing repair demonstrations, while the Middlesbrough Food Partnership will talk to people about how it is working with grassroots organisations and local producers.

There will be some soup to try, with ingredients fresh from a local EcoShop. The Communal Corner will be talking about growing plants and vegetables on a budget, and the South Tees Affordable Warmth Partnership will be offering advice about affordable and energy saving tips, and reducing fuel poverty.