A vacuum cleaner was among the 19 electrical items taken to the latest Blackdown Hills Repair Café.

It had not been working properly for some time, but on close inspection, one of the five electrical volunteers was able to pinpoint the problem – the dustbag was blocked!

It is not always a major problem which confronts the electrical team – sometimes it can be a simple one which could perhaps save an item from being discarded to landfill.

The team of 36 volunteer repairers now includes a clock and watch specialist who was kept busy at his first event.

Another new feature was the table of unwanted tools. One of the tool repairers had been given a couple of boxes of tools days before, and they were put on show for people to help themselves for a small donation.

Anyone who has unwanted tools is asked to let the Repair Café know – they can be collected in advance, checked over and offered at the next event.

A group of seamstresses – no seamsters, yet – are planning to introduce a re-purposing/upcycling section where items which have passed their sell-by date for their original use can be given a new lease of life as something else.

For example, part of an old tent was turned into a waterproof dog jacket. All ideas – and materials – will be gratefully received.

Bacon butties will again be among the home-made cakes and scones at the next Repair Café on Saturday, January 26, from 10am-noon, at Hemyock Parish Hall.

For more information, contact [email protected], or 01823 602 908 or visit RepairCafeBlackdowns on Facebook.