Wallingford’s Repair Café was the latest in a programme of such events held by community groups across Oxfordshire to encourage a “Fix-it” attitude and reduce electrical waste. Items repaired at earlier events have included a sewing machine, vacuum cleaner, cuddly toy and remote control car.

Tool sharpening and bike maintenance are among the services being offered to get gardening tools and bicycles ready for the warmer months.  There were experts for electrical/electronic and textile repairs plus electrical safety testing and ad hoc repairs like gluing.  Only minor repairs and maintenance can be undertaken due to time constraints but generally, the experts on hand will advise visitors how to complete the repairs or maintenance themselves where safe to do so.  Sharing skills with visitors is one of the group’s aims to help more people consider repair or maintenance instead of the rubbish bin when an item breaks.

Everyone was very enthusiastic and we‘re looking forward to seeing what challenges are presented next time.  To keep everyone refreshed there were hot drinks and homemade cakes available alongside the repair activities. The next Wallingford Repair Café  is on Sat June 30 10.00 – 1.pm at Centre 70, Kinecroft, Wallingford.