Leaflets and stickers replace donating bags

DONATION bags distributed by the Air Ambulance service in parts of Leicestershire are being replaced with leaflets and stickers as part of a trial to reduce the amount of plastic going to landfill sites.

If the initiative – during National Recycling Week - is successful it will be rolled out permanently across Leicestershire.

“This is an exciting trial which could potentially prevent 1.5 million plastic bags a year ending up in the ground,” says John Hamm, Recycling Logistics Manager.

“Instead of being given plastic bags for their donated items, householders will receive a leaflet or stickers that can be attached to unwanted clothes or goods they leave out for collection,” he explains.

The charity - which operates Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance and Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance – is also offering a free collection service for donated goods.

The Air Ambulance service receives no government funding and relies on public support and donations to secure its existence and raise the £1,700 it costs to undertake each rescue mission.

Profits from donated items sold in charity shops and online are an important source of income.

To find out more about supporting the local air ambulance, go to www.theairambulanceservice. org.uk or call 03003 045 999.