CINDERFORD Upcycle has moved to new, larger premises on the Hollywood Works industrial estate.

The move not only offers more room to display the donated household items and a dedicated refilling station for eco household detergents but, importantly, the space for the workshop to open to the community on Wednesday mornings.

The workshop breathes new life into some of the donated items in need of a bit of TLC - from a rub down and wax to a paint job – ensuring more of them are saved from landfill.

Volunteers do not need any previous experience to join the workshop as everyone is there to share their own knowledge and learn from others.

Proceeds from sales in Forest Upcycling Project’s stores in Cinderford and Chepstow allow them to provide job opportunities for local people, with the focus on those who would struggle to obtain or maintain mainstream employment.

Kris, one of the Upcycle managers, said: “It’s a real chance for people to get to know others in a working environment. Striking up a conversation over finding a screw, or which sandpaper to use is much more natural for some people that sitting across a table with a cup of tea. Everyone is welcome, from retired carpenters to people in their 20s who have never picked up a tool before!

“Workshops like this can do wonders for relieving social isolation of those that live on their own and can also be great for increasing confidence in social situations.

“If you know someone that would benefit from this please encourage them to come down and give us a try!”

The workshops run from 11am to 2pm every Wednesday at the Upcycle Showroom, 8-10 Hollywood Works, Valley Road, Cinderford, GL14 2PD. Anyone who would like to know more is invited to pop in for a chat, give them a call (01594 368240) or email them on [email protected]