Eco-trainers on right track

Transport operator FirstGroup has teamed up with a recycling firm for a project that has seen fabric from bus seats used in the manufacture of trainers.

First has launched a partnership with recycling firm TRiP to help reuse and recycle transport industry waste.

The seat fabric is now being used for basketball-style trainers, which were shown off in Bath this week.

Justin Davies, managing director of First Bristol, Somerset & Avon, said: "This partnership with TRiP is both innovative and imaginative and it underlines our commitment to sustainability."

He said it was part of a waste management programme run by FirstGroup, which is also parent company of rail operator First Great Western.

Mr Davies added: "The shoes are great, they are made from 100 per cent recycled materials, including bus seat covers and recycled tyre rubber. They are a must-have for the fashion-conscious environmentalist."

The shoes sell for £70 a pair through retailer Above and Below.

TRiP projects director Robert Taylor-Read said: "To have the world's leading transport operator support us is a tremendous boost for the business."