Join In Our Recycling (from This Is Essex)

Join in our recycling!
By Frazer Clark

OFFERING UNWANTED GOODS: Jules Greaves and son Jack, eight Picture: Maxine Clarke T7GDH7

A South Ockendon mother has set up a free internet service to try and reduce the amount of rubbish created in Thurrock.

Jules Greaves, of Annifer Way, moved to the borough from Blackpool. She formed a “Freecycle” group after being shocked at what people threw away.

Her group, based in South Ockendon, already boasts more than 260 members. Each can list items they no longer want on the group website, in the hope these can go to a home elsewhere in Thurrock.

“The idea is a simple one, it’s totally free and it’s for people who want others to have their unwanted goods rather than see them end up on the tip,” Jules explained.
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“It’s criminal that perfectly usable furniture, electrical goods, bikes and other stuff ends up in the tip rather than with somebody who could use it. This is a gifting site. This is about having a choice over the unwanted stuff that clutters up your home or shed.

“When I looked around, the nearest Freecycle group was in Basildon, but there didn’t seem to be one for Thurrock - so I started one. You have to register, but it’s free. No money changes hands.”

Jules, 34, believes the service will benefit not only her generation, but children like her own sons, Ryan, 15, who attends Ockendon School and Jack Greaves, eight, who goes to Bonnygate. So she is hoping the scheme can become better-known around the borough.

“It is a concept that I think should be in every town,” she said. “Our members are honest and do say if there’s something wrong with what they’re offering.

“People have signed up from Grays, South Ockendon, Chadwell, and Corringham. Thurrock Council has even added a link to us from their recycling web pages.”

For information on getting involved, call Jules on 01708 402401 or visit www.freecycle.org and click through to Essex groups.