“We can’t afford to carry on into next year if all the toys are stolen this summer”

The founders of an eco-friendly initiative that provides free beach toys for children and families have called on the public to “take responsibility” and prevent theft.

Lou Carson, who launched the ‘Borrow A Bucket’ scheme in 2021, said she is in “a difficult position” because a large number of toy boxes are being emptied “really quickly”, when toys are meant to last the full summer season – leading her team to believe that some might have been taken away.

The free scheme was launched to support those living in poverty as well as making islanders and visitors more environmentally conscious by reducing the need for buying new plastic toys.

All toys on offer in the boxes are made of recycled material and are largely donated by corporate sponsors.

Ms Carson said that they have “run out of time” with the rate of theft this year, which has cost them more money than previous years.

“We have lost dozens of footballs, more buckets and spades and frisbees,” she explained.

Ms Carson added: “Currently, we can’t afford to carry on into next year if all the toys are stolen this summer. We can’t keep refilling the boxes.”

She appealed for parents to make sure that their children are not bringing home extra toys.

“If a child borrows something, they need to put it back,” Ms Carson said.

She added: “If you’ve taken something by accident, that’s okay. But put the toys back in one of the various boxes.”

Ms Carson said she has also appealed to hotels to look out for toys left by guests.

“We need islanders to help keep these boxes alive.”