Homes Under the Hammer star launches household goods re-use scheme

Published by Max Salsbury for 24dash.com in Environment and also in Communities

Martin Roberts, star of TV show Homes Under the Hammer, has launched a housing association's new household goods re-use scheme.

The co-presenter of the BBC One programme helped Aster Communities unveil 'Twice as Nice' - an initiative that promotes the re-use of furniture, electrical goods and paint.

Mr Roberts cut the ribbon to officially declare the new Twice as Nice shop in Shepton Mallet open for business.

Aster Communities has launched Twice as Nice in Somerset following its success in Hampshire, where the scheme has been running since 2006.

In that time, the scheme has collected around 500 tonnes of furniture and provided recycled items to more than 12,000 customers.

Items donated have ranged from sofas and bookcases to pet cages and mobility scooters.

At the launch, attendees were able to find out more about the services available under the scheme, volunteering opportunities, a ‘Work Skills’ scheme, and Mendip Community Re-Paint – an initiative designed to re-use household and commercial paint.

Laura Kavanagh, Twice as Nice project manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching Twice as Nice in Somerset. It’s proved extremely popular in Hampshire and we’re confident it can be just as successful here.

“The scheme is open to anyone who lives in Somerset, whether they’re looking to purchase high-quality second-hand furniture, electrical goods or paint at reduced prices, or donate their unwanted items.

“We had an extremely busy first day – we sold lots of items and people were queuing up outside well before we opened the doors. We’re very pleased with the start we’ve made and we’re delighted Martin was able to come and help us kick things off.”