People are being asked to consider shopping at the council's reuse shops this Christmas to give pre-owned items a second lease of life.

The shops, at Burnley and Preston recycling centres, contain a plethora of hidden gems that people have dropped off at the sites.

The items have been renovated, upcycled, or were dropped off while still in good condition and help reduce unnecessary waste and people save money by offering bargains.

Items include electrical goods, garden supplies, furniture, clothes, children's toys, bicycles, bric-a-brac and more, with many hidden gems to be found.

Councillor Shaun Turner, cabinet member for environment and climate change at Lancashire County Council, said: "The run-up to Christmas is a fantastic time to de-clutter your home before you put up your decorations.

A selection of nutcrackers on offer at bargain pricesA selection of nutcrackers on offer at bargain prices (Image: Lancashire County Council) "Charity shops are able to sell these items on and make a small profit to fund their work.

"Our reuse shops also take a variety of household goods. They are a great source for finding unique and interesting, hidden gems at affordable prices.

"Instead of going to waste, these items can be put to great 'reuse' in another home.

"You can find something at our reuse shops that you can't find anywhere else.

"Christmas can be an expensive time for families. Shopping at one of the reuse shops means that you can find a real bargain with many of the small items under a pound – you won't find a stocking filler for less than that!

"The shops offer up children's toys including board games, bicycles which have been safety checked and fully restored by our fantastic volunteers, and great condition children's clothes.

"For the whole family, we have ornaments, glassware, tools and garden goodies such as plants, interesting plant pots and gardening tools.

"It's a heartwarming thought to think that donating or buying from our shops helps the environment by causing fewer items to go to waste and helps to make us all more sustainable.

"It's a very easy way to help the planet and make a small difference to your local community.

"If you're near our Preston or Burnley reuse shops in the next few weeks, why not stop by to see what they have to offer."