The public are being encouraged to be less wasteful as this year’s ‘Pass It On’ week gets underway.

The themed week, which has been organised by environmental campaigners Zero Waste Scotland, aims to raise awareness of the benefits of swapping, sharing, upcycling, donating or buying second-hand items.

It runs from March 7-15 and residents in North Ayrshire can get involved by participating in Scotland’s ‘Great Toy Rescue’ which gives new life to good quality unwanted toys.

Those wishing to donate can do so via collection boxes which will be at Saltcoats, Irvine and Kilwinning libraries, March 7-10 and Largs, West Kilbride and Kilbirnie libraries, March 12-14. The toys collected will be sent to local play groups, libraries, nurseries and charities.

Councillor Jim Montgomerie, cabinet member for place, said: “This is a great way for people to put their unwanted toys to good use. By re-using these items, it will ensure they don’t needlessly get sent for disposal.

“But it’s not just toys, we would encourage people to take a look at all items they no longer need and if it’s something someone else may be able to make use of, then why not pass it on.”