B&Q is kicking off its first garden tools trade-in next weekend as part of the home improvement retailer’s plans to become more sustainable.

The retailer is encouraging people to hand in their old or broken gardening hand tools to six of its Bristol stores on June 15 and 16. The unwanted tools will be refurbished and donated to community groups and schools in the area.

In return, customers will receive a £10-off voucher when they spend £40 or more on new garden hand tools with the aim to encourage people to spend time outdoors and enjoy their gardens.

B&Q said if the trial is successful, it could be expanded to its stores across the country.  

Matt Sexton, corporate social responsibility director at B&Q, said: ”This is a very exciting project for B&Q which sees us continue our work in creating a more sustainable business and help our customers create greener homes.”

He added: “We’re now looking at ways that we can help our customers reduce their waste, by having their unwanted gardening tools upcycled and donated to good causes, ultimately benefiting their local community.”

B&Q has teamed up with The Conservation Foundation to run the scheme.