Recycle for Wiltshire Air Ambulance scheme closes

The voluntary group, started by Lesa Snook and Sam Peters in 2014, has been raising vital funds for the charity, totalling over £90,000.

More recently, however, many of the recycling schemes they have utilised through Terracycle have been withdrawn, leading to a vast drop in opportunities to raise money.

Writing on their Facebook group, they say: “The Recycle for Wiltshire Air Ambulance programme has been an integral part of our fundraising efforts for many years, and its success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our incredible volunteers.

“The decision to close the Salisbury Hub was not made lightly, but unfortunately the forever changing TERRACYCLE guidelines, including the closure of some significant recycling schemes which helped us raise thousands annually have had a substantial impact on our fundraising totals.

“Our valued co-founder, Sam, is also facing long-term unavailability due to medical reasons.”

The statement adds: “Since our beginnings many years ago, with your help we’ve raised an impressive £90,000, and this total will continue to rise as some of our volunteers have kindly offered to continue their support and continue recycling for us.”

A handful of collectors in Bulford, Corsham, Chippenham, Devizes and Royal Wootton Bassett will remain as drop off points for recycling for the few remaining schemes. However, all postal donations are now closed.

Lesa and Sam add: “We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our volunteers, past and present, who have dedicated their time to help and support us.

“Thanks to recyclers around the country but predominantly Wiltshire for saving your waste and donating it to us, including schools, clubs, businesses and organisations.

“Finally, thanks to the management and staff at The Phoenix Emporium for kindly given us a home for the last few years.”

Wiltshire Air Ambulance senior community manager Cas Loudon said: “We are so grateful to Lesa and Sam for setting up Recycle for Wiltshire Air Ambulance all those years ago.

“It is a huge shame that so many of their schemes have been withdrawn recently and we totally understand their decision to close the hub in Salisbury.

“Their efforts, along with their hardy bunch of volunteers, have helped to raise funds to keep our essential service operational for a whole week – that’s on average 21 potentially lifesaving missions which have been powered by recycling.”