GARDENERS across Britain are benefiting from an imaginative recycling scheme which converts scrap car brake pipe tubing into a range of plant supports.

The scheme is the brainchild of specialist industrial consultants NJT Associates, of Haslingden.

During its first full year of operation 275,000 metres of scrap metal tubing was recycled.

Major multinational company TI Group Automotive Systems called in NJT to push forward ambitious plans to recycle the majority of the "in process" scrap generated at TI's Telford plant.

As well as bringing business benefits, the scheme also helps the environment by cutting the amount of waste that goes into landfill sites.

The scheme involves inmates at Haverigg Prison, Cumbria, converting the scrap tubes into supports to hold up garden plants. The supports are sold under the brand name Dr Growgood through garden shows and mail order.

The supports have been marketed at Chelsea Flower Show and at Hampton Court amongst other venues. NJT is looking to expand the outlets to include garden centres and major DIY stores.

Alan Schofield, senior partner with NJT, said: "Recycling may not be a dream or expensive diversion for industry. With imagination, commitment and focused management, sustainable, self-funding schemes can become a reality.

"The tubing is designed for underneath cars so it is extremely weather-proof but because it is made from different types of metal which are plastic-coated it is not suitable for melting down."

Picture: Alan Schofield, of NJT Associates, with the garden supports salvaged from car brake pipes