A SALVAGING charity has saved almost a tonne of Isle of Wight Festival equipment from landfill.

Following the festival, Herts for Refugees ­— who will redistribute the equipment to vulnerable people ­— spent two days at the Seaclose Park festival site salvaging tents and camping equipment.

In total, the team collected three van loads of equipment which would cost around £20,000 to buy new.

The team approached festival organisers, John and Caroline Giddings, who were supportive of the cause.

A spokesperson for Herts for Refugees, said: "The phenomenon of people abandoning tents and other camping equipment has been very much in the news lately.

"By salvaging useable tents and sleeping bags, we can save a substantial amount from going into the ground.

"The reality is, the gear people abandon at festivals is literally saving lives."

Herts for Refugees thanked John and Caroline Giddings, Ed Brotherton of Amey and all the volunteers who helped.

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