If you’re looking for a new coat for the coming winter, then best make tracks to Petersfield station this weekend.

The booking hall will become a seasonal swapshop this Saturday as around 200 coats will be given away as part of the fourth Winter Warmer scheme.

The scheme was the brainchild of Lucy Lomax and Jenny Steventon and was previously based in the adjacent Free Shop. The idea was simple: Donate an unwanted coat, hat, scarf or pair of gloves at the drop-off point at Petersfield Library, and pick a new one for free.

“I think it’s quite a nice scheme because it’s with the library, who have been amazing,” said Jenny.

“I feel like the whole community gets involved in it now and we’re getting close to the 200 mark.

“I’ve also got to say thank you to Stephen and the team at the library because they’re amazing and have been so enthusiastic and helpful.”

People have until this Friday afternoon to drop off their unwanted coats at the library, with the big event taking place at the station from 10am to 3pm on Saturday.

There are other Winter Warmer schemes along the Portsmouth to Waterloo line so any clothing left over will be distributed along the SWR corridor.

“When I started this with Lucy, who was always really passionate about Winter Warmers, we were working with Free Shop so it was in-keeping with the whole reducing landfill ethos,” said Jennifer.

“But it’s also a great way to ease pressure for families, too, because not everyone can afford a new coat – it’s like a hand-me-down system, but one that really benefits the community.

“We need coats for both men and women, children, even dogs, along with hats, gloves and scarves. Everything is free and everyone is welcome.”

For more details email [email protected]