Ellis Brigham's 2nd Life campaign aims to kit out homeless people

Retailer Ellis Brigham is urging outdoors enthusiasts to donate unwanted clothing and gear to help the homeless and cut landfill waste.

Three of its stores are collecting items to pass on to two charities that help those living on the streets.

The company wants outdoor fans to have a look in their wardrobe for any items they no longer use that could be used by the homeless.

Its 2nd Life campaign aims to kit out some of the estimated 320,000 living rough on the UK’s streets and stop some of the clothing, said to be worth £140m annually, from being sent to landfill sites.

A spokesperson said: “You can help readdress this balance by donating sleeping bags, outdoor jackets, trousers, fleeces, hats and base layers to the 2nd Life initiative just launched by Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports.

“There are three drop-off points or you can call their customer services department to arrange a collection. Ellis Brigham will receive, sort and rehome items via two charities, Barnabus in Manchester and SCT in London.

“So, go rummage through your cupboards and help give your unwanted outdoor clothing a more meaningful 2nd Life.”

The retailer asks that donated items be clean and, if possible, reproofed.

The three collection stores are at Deansgate in Manchester and Covent Garden in central London and Stratford in east London.

More details are on the Ellis Brigham website.