AN old Volvo is the first car to be recycled in an resourceful scheme that will help fund a charity based in Minchinhampton.

The Volvo V50 Estate has been donated to Longfield by Penny Laker and her partner Charles who volunteers with the hospice to kick off the new Motors for Money scheme.

She’s appealing to others to scrap their old cars to help the charity which supports more than 900 people coping with life-limiting illnesses across the county every year.

Longfield has teamed up with Stroud Recovery, in Rocksmoor Mills, on Bath Road.

Jason Wielgus, owner of Stroud Recovery, says he’s happy to help.

"It’s a good idea, I’m going to offer it to my customers too.

"There’s no cost to the customer, they just give us the car and the log book, we sort out the paperwork, and we take care of the rest – it’s hassle free for them," he said.

"We’re all up for raising money for charities, especially local ones like Longfield, and this is a great way to do it."

The company is donating its services to collect old cars that can be recycled.

Each vehicle will then be scrapped or if appropriate sent to auction and any proceeds donated to Longfield.

The Motors for Money scheme has been inspired by a hospice in Dorset which runs a similar project.

It’s possible that lorries, jet skis or even boats could be considered.

Each item offered for donation will be assessed to check it won’t cost more to dispose of than its scrap value.

For more information call the Longfield fundraising team on 01453 886868.