Morton Community Trust launch “Boots & Pieces”
Greenock Morton Community Trust has launched a new sports swap shop called ‘Boots and Pieces’ with Ton manager Dougie Imrie and Radio DJ George Bowie throwing their support behind the initiative.
‘Boots and Pieces’ is a new community sports swap shop for Inverclyde, aiming to keep people involved in sport during the cost-of-living crisis as well as reducing the amount of material sent to landfill from the local area.
Sports clothing, shoes and kit which is still in good condition but no longer needed can be donated to the project at dedicated drop points throughout Inverclyde and can be swapped for new sizes or items. The project will ensure all items are cleaned, laundered, and safe for reuse; or will recycle them responsibly.
The charity’s Chief Executive, Brian McLaughlin said, “Research is showing that over 40% of people currently playing sport in the UK are thinking of quitting because of rising costs, we don’t want anyone in Inverclyde being in that position.”
“If we can ease some of the worry about where your child’s new football boots are coming from, or help find the next size of kit you need, that’s where Boots and Pieces comes in.”
The project already has local support with the Inverkip Community Hub and Fort Matilda Tennis Club hosting donation points and encouraging their participants to get involved.
“We are very grateful to other local organisations and sports clubs for their support, it’s a project that will benefit the whole community”, said Brian McLaughlin.
Boots and Pieces, a nod to the famous dance track ‘Bits and Pieces’ has attracted the support of George Bowie himself, “Aside from the brilliant name, it’s a fantastic project that I hope will help people in the community to access sport and the kit they need to take part. I’m absolutely delighted to support Boots and Pieces.”
Morton manager Dougie Imrie said, “The team and I were onboard as soon as we heard about the project. We know first-hand how important it is that people have access to sport and the good it does. Plus, it’s making us think twice about where our old boots and kit go, we can help the planet as well as our community and that’s a win-win.”
Sports items the project will accept include football boots, trainers, t-shirts, shorts and tracksuits, football kits, sports bags, shin pads and goalkeeper gloves. Items must be in a good condition and not have any missing parts, stains, or tears.
Fans attending Morton vs Queen’s Park on Saturday 17 December can donate on Sinclair Street before kick-off. For those not attending the match, if you have items to donate you can hand them into the Trust’s office at Cappielow, at Fort Matilda Tennis Club in Greenock’s west end or at Inverkip Community Hub.
You can visit www.bootsandpieces.co.uk for full details and follow @bootsxpieces on Instagram to stay up to date with the project.
We would like to thank Inverclyde Windfarm Fund; Sustainable Development Grant for supporting this new project.
