Unusual items revealed at Staffordshire recycling centres

Staffordshire's household waste recycling centres have seen an array of unusual items donated by residents recently, with highlights including an illuminated pond display and a pole dancing set.

Among the intriguing donations are African drums, framed World War II medals, antique teddy bears, a gramophone, and even a bouncy castle.

Other unexpected contributions include an archer’s bow and arrow set, a barometer, and an old telephone.

Some items, such as the medals, are being investigated to trace family or relations of the owner. Meanwhile, other donations will be given to schools, libraries, and local organisations or offered at charity sales events.

Staffordshire County Council’s waste recycling team is reminding residents that items can find new homes through its Rescue Me pop-up charity sales initiative, which last year raised over £17,000 for local charities and community organisations.

Additionally, efforts are in place to refurbish bikes for county school children and donate furniture to the Care Leavers Hub, aiding care leavers in setting up new homes.

Used IT equipment, medical aids, and paint are also collected at the centres and repurposed by charities and community programs.

Andrew Mynors, Cabinet Member for Connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, said: “It’s fantastic that people are bringing so many items for reuse and recycling to our centres across the county – they can benefit so many people, and we work with a range of organisations to make that happen."

“And of course the team collects some interesting and not so common items which they will keep and direct to the most appropriate place so nothing is wasted."

First for all the latest news from across the UK every hour on Hits Radio on DAB, at hitsradio.co.uk and on the Rayo app.