The Repair Café in Twickenham, which was born out of a pandemic get together, has become a remarkable success.

Hundreds of people have attended the monthly event to seek help from its volunteer experts.

As a result a massive array of items, from coffee and sewing machines to toys, clocks, clothes, bikes, teapots and even a Star Wars lightsaber, have been given a new life.

The initiative has tapped into a 'make do and mend' approach which has grown in popularity as part of a wider backlash against a throwaway society.

And in the midst of a cost of living crisis, the Repair Café has helped many people save money because they have avoided having to go out and buy replacements.

Hundreds of people have attended the monthly event to seek help from its volunteer experts.

The team at the Repair Café have created a three-minute video, which offers an insight into what goes on at the events, which take place at St Margaret's Church on the third Saturday of every month.

It reveals positive tales of repairs of a watch, lawnmower, shopping trolley and even a wounded Action Man toy.

One happy customer said: "It's a fantastic experience. These are all really talented people and I am very grateful."

The initiative has tapped into a 'make do and mend' approach which has grown in popularity as part of a wider backlash against a throwaway society.

Founder member of the team, Colin Messenger, said: "Vast amounts of stuff gets thrown away and many people have forgotten that they can repair things themselves. Changing mindsets can kindle people's enthusiasm for a more sustainable society and show people how much fun repairing can be.

"The way the Cafe works is that people will bring along their broken items from home and a volunteer will, not only repair the item (hopefully), but, share their skills to give people the confidence to do their own repairs in the future."

The next Repair Café takes place on Saturday – June 17 – at St Margarets Church, 10.30am-1.30pm.