Passing on unwanted clothing and gear can help youngsters enjoy the outdoors

Outdoor fans are being encouraged to donate their unwanted gear to help the next generation of enthusiasts.

Clearing out your cupboards of outfits and equipment you no longer use can help young people enjoy the great outdoors, organisers of the Gift Your Gear scheme said.

The project is the brainchild of Sarah Howcroft, who co-founded the Rohan clothing brand and shops.

And anyone taking their used gear to one of the Rohan stores during September will qualify for a 15 per cent discount on a full-price purchase that day.

Clothing and equipment must be in a good condition, organisers said.

It will then be passed on to UK community organisations, youth groups and charities working with young people in the outdoors.

Ms Howcroft said: “Most outdoor gear will last much longer than we want or need it to; its full potential is never realised.

“If unwanted gear is donated to Gift Your Gear not only is its useful life extended, but another person gets to experience the joy of using good gear.”

Gift Your Gear said it is estimated that on average we wear an item of clothing for less than a third of its useful lifespan.

The target is 1 million items of donated gear

Ms Howcroft is aiming to see Gift Your Gear donate one million items of outdoor gear.

A spokesperson for the scheme said: “The outdoor gear you donate will make a real difference to the community organisations, youth groups and charities who receive it, enabling others to benefit from life-changing experiences in the great outdoors regardless of their circumstances.”

All outdoor clothing, walking boots and children’s clothing regardless of brand will be accepted at the stores and qualify for the discount.

More details are on the Gift Your Gear website.