Island Business Teemill Backs West Wight Eco Refill Scheme

A volunteer-led environmental initiative in West Wight has received a boost from Island business Teemill, helping it continue raising money for the local community while reducing plastic waste.

The Eco Refill scheme, based at West Wight Sports and Community Centre's café in Freshwater, allows customers to replenish everyday household and personal care products using their own containers.

Teemill has now sponsored branded T-shirts for the entire volunteer team, making them easier for visitors to identify and helping raise awareness of the initiative.

The clothing has been provided free of charge by Alex Lewis and his team, meaning more of the scheme's proceeds can go directly towards supporting the Centre.

Clare Griffin, Manager at West Wight Sports and Community Centre, said:

"We are incredibly grateful to Alex and everyone at Teemill for supporting Eco Refill in this way.

"The fact that they have provided the T shirts free of charge means that more of the money raised through Eco Refill can go directly towards supporting the ongoing work of the Centre and the local community.

"It is a brilliant example of local organisations supporting one another."

Earlier this year, Eco Refill passed £1,000 in funds raised since its launch, with all profits supporting West Wight Sports and Community Centre Charity.

Recent proceeds have helped fund swimming lessons for children from families experiencing financial difficulties, giving more youngsters the opportunity to learn an essential life skill.

Alongside the new T-shirts, a flag has been introduced in the Moa Place car park to let residents know when Eco Refill is operating.

The scheme opens every Tuesday and Saturday between 10am and midday, offering products including laundry detergent, washing-up liquid, cleaning supplies, shampoo, conditioner and shower products.

Customers are encouraged to bring clean containers, helping reduce single-use plastic while purchasing only the quantities they need.

Gina Maliphant, Eco Refill's Lead Volunteer, said:

"We have been really pleased with how the community has embraced Eco Refill.

"It is great to see people returning with their bottles and making refilling part of their regular shopping.

"Having the new T shirts and flag will make us much easier to spot, and hopefully encourage even more people to come and see what we are all about."

The volunteer team is also planning a special late-night opening ahead of Christmas, with further details to be announced through West Wight Sports and Community Centre's social media channels.