A LEISURE centre in Ryedale has joined a campaign to save unwanted running shoes.  

Ryedale Swim and Fitness Centre, located in Mill Lane, Pickering, has joined with the JogOn campaign, which is aiming to keep one million pairs of running shoes out of landfill.

The sports centre, run by Everyone Active in partnership with Ryedale District Council, is hosting a collection bin where members of the local community can drop off their unwanted running shoes.

These are sent to JogOn who send the shoes around the world to people who need them most, with the help of charities and non-governmental organisations.

Jon Bird, Everyone Active’s general manager, said: “We are delighted to partner with JogOn for this hugely positive initiative, which means the local community can make a real difference.

“We would encourage people of all ages to donate their unwanted running shoes so that they can experience a second life, rather than simply going to landfill.”

Tony Piedade, JogOn’s CEO, said: “This partnership with Everyone Active will prove a huge boost in our efforts to keep 1million pairs of running shoes from going to landfill.

“We know from trials that leisure centre users are very engaged in this type of initiative, and we fully expect to see 60-70 pairs collected per centre, each month.

“With a push, this partnership alone could keep 100,000 pairs a year out of landfill.”

Phillip Spurr, director of place and resources for Ryedale District Council, said: “This is a great initiative that has a great outcome for our communities and the environment.”