A scheme to reduce the amount of waste going into landfill sites has been started by a conservation group.

Teesdale Conservation Volunteers, in Startforth, near Barnard Castle, have set up a furniture recycling scheme called Freecycle.

People can donate furniture and electrical equipment, which is renovated and repaired before being given free to people who need it.

It was set up after project managers Martin and Jill Bacon read about a similar scheme in New York.

Mr Bacon said: "Often you go the tip and see items and think why has someone thrown that out.

"We want to take those items and reduce the amount of landfill.

"What we don't want to be is a house clearance service though. The items have got to be something that people will want."

The scheme, which is running on a trial basis in Barnard Castle and surrounding villages, also allows the volunteers to learn new skills as they renovate and advertise the furniture.

Mr Bacon is also hoping to set up a musical instrument recycling scheme.

* Freecycle can be contacted on call (01833) 690043.