Bedford Repair Cafe’s fabulous fixers save 90kg from landfill

Bedford Repair Cafe
Co-founder, Katie Allen, Marie Ange Comerford of Queens Park Community Orchard and Cllr Lucy Bywater from the Green Party

Bedford Repair Cafe returned on Saturday 22 February for another successful afternoon of fabulous fixing, diverting more things from landfill.

38 items came through the doors of Tavistock Community Centre, with the vast majority being given a new lease of life.

“We worked on mixers, bikes, hedge trimmers, jackets, vacuum cleaners and chairs,” said organiser and volunteer fixer, Daniel Churchill.

“We especially enjoyed handing over the tools to our visitors, and under the guidance of fixers, helping people to complete their own repairs.”

A whopping 90kgs of broken stuff was brought back to life and saved from landfill, and a further 15kg of craft materials were shared through the Repair Cafe’s swapping table, which has become a permanent feature of the events.

“We had lots of people drop by just to show their support and find out what’s going on, which we highly encourage,” said co-founder, Katie Allen.

“Particular thanks to councillors from Harpur Ward and Castle Ward for their support in running future events.”

This month’s volunteer fixers were Claire, Helen, Simon, Mark, Jon and Daniel, with Katie running the show and special guest Alex on refreshments and overseeing the floor.

“The next cafe isn’t until Easter,” said Katie.  “But if you’re one of the many voices that says we should run more often, please get in touch. In order for us to grow, we need a few extra hands on deck. Organisers, fixers, and tea-makers all welcome.”

To volunteer, or to find out more, email bedfordrepaircafe@gmail.com


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