QUEEN Elizabeth School’s new pre-loved uniform store has saved families more than £1,150 in its first few months.

Ecothreads was launched by QE sixth-formers last autumn, with the support of local charity Involve Mid Devon, to reduce the school’s environmental footprint and keep clothing out of landfills.

Since then, more than 200 items have been donated and as many as 62 pieces of uniform sold for around 85 per cent less than buying new.

Recycle Devon, owned by Devon County Council, has also recently given the store a £250 grant to fund essential equipment like rails, storage and sewing kits.

Coming soon will be another new second-hand clothing initiative, “Pre-Loved Prom”, which aims to “make this prom season the most sustainable to date”.

Involve Mid Devon Crediton Community Builder Tamlyn Fraiquin praised Ecothreads’ “incredible progress”.

She said: “From launching Pre-Loved Uniform to receiving a £250 grant from Recycle Devon, we’ve been working hard to promote sustainability and support our community.

“We’ve collected, sorted, and distributed uniforms, helping families save money and reduce waste.

“Thanks to Recycle Devon, we will be purchasing rails, storage, and sewing kits, enabling us to grow our impact.

“With these resources, we’re gearing up to launch our next initiative – Pre-Loved Prom.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far. Together, we’re making a real difference!”

Money raised by Ecothreads is to be split between supporting further sustainability projects at QE and local charity Crediton and District Playscheme for Children with Additional Needs.

You can donate QE School blazers, QE School ties, school trousers, school shorts, school skirts, shirts, PE kit, school shoes, bags and coats to the store by dropping them off at QE Barnfield campus reception, QE Western Road reception or Crediton Library.

Donated items should be clean and in decent condition.