THERE was plenty to see and do for all ages when Moray Reach Out held an open day from their Buckie HQ just ahead of the coronavirus lockdown.

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Waste into Wearables was the theme of the day for the charity, which provides training opportunities for adults with learning difficulties. Joining the fun were Moray-based group Going Nova, who had been running sessions across the region as part of a project funded by Moray Leader. During the open day they ran workshops on how to create opportunities from waste.

Everyday items otherwise destined for the bin such as plastic milk bottles, bicycle inner tyre tubes, bubble wrap and all types of discarded clothes and fabric were the starting point, the outcome being jewellery and accessories.

There was also the chance to try the 3D doodle pen, which uses waste plastic recycled by a Dutch company into filament which the pen melts and shapes.

There was also the chance to enjoy a cuppa and some tasty snacks during theopen day.

MRO's general and business development manager Shona Radojkovic said: "We had a good turnout, all things considered, we were delighted at the support we got.

"There was a lot of interest in the workshops and the other demonstrations which were running, such as the spinning."

MRO officially opened their Buckie base last October, situated in the former Cruickshank's store on East Church Street, with new Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson doing the honours.

Ms Radojkovic added: "The space we now have is fantastic, it's allowed us to to house a far broader range of activities."

MRO's HQ is currently closed for the duration of the Covid-19 lockdown, although their recycling division at March Road Industrial estate is still receiving donations of drinks cans from the public. The funds raised from recycling these can will help keep the charity afloat as most of their income derived from collecting cans from businesses has dried up due to the coronavirus emergency.

Cans should be placed in the yellow bins at the plant while obeying all NHS and government guidelines regarding Covid-19.

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