FAMILIES across Teignbridge are being encouraged to give Halloween costumes a second life as local libraries join forces for a greener approach to spooky celebrations.

The Halloween Costume Swap initiative, delivered by Libraries Unlimited in partnership with Recycle Devon, is expanding this year to six libraries across Teignbridge: Bovey Tracey, Buckfastleigh, Chudleigh, Dawlish, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth.

The scheme follows a successful response last year, when more than 180 Halloween costumes were donated across 14 libraries in Devon, helping hundreds of families find pre-loved outfits.

This year, families are being invited to bring unwanted or outgrown Halloween costumes and accessories to participating libraries. Items should be clean, in good condition and suitable for another child to wear.

Those looking for a costume can then browse the swap rail and choose an outfit to take home for free.

There is no requirement to donate a costume in order to take part.

The initiative aims to tackle the environmental impact of Halloween costumes, many of which are worn just once before being thrown away.

Research by Hubbub and the Fairyland Trust has found that Halloween costumes generate more than 2,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year – the equivalent of around 83 million plastic bottles.

Organisers say swapping costumes can help reduce waste, keep outfits in use for longer and save families money, while still allowing children to get creative with their Halloween costumes.

Alex Kittow, CEO of Libraries Unlimited, said: ‘We want Halloween to be fun and creative, without families feeling they must buy something new every year.

‘Giving a costume a second life is a small change, but when lots of people get involved, it can make a real difference.

‘We’d love to see even more families getting involved this year’.

Families are advised to contact their local participating library for dates, times and details of individual costume swap events.

The programme is part of efforts to encourage reuse and reduce waste, while helping families enjoy Halloween without the need to buy new costumes every year.