FOOD lovers are needed to help combat waste and help people save money.

Hampshire County Council is recruiting a team of volunteer champions who it hopes will help change the county’s attitudes towards food waste.

It comes as the council teams up with the Love Food Hate Waste campaign as part of a year-long drive to reduce the county’s £100m a year waste disposal costs.

The campaign launches next month and aims to make more people aware of how to make and use compost at home, reduce food waste, upcycle furniture and use second-hand shops.

The volunteer champions will attend events and lead workshops and talks on subjects including gardening, smart shopping, meal planning and using leftovers – which could help families save up to £60 a month.

They will also contribute to articles for websites and community websites.

Food waste costs the country billions, and in Hampshire alone around 62,000 tonnes of food is thrown out every year.

The council’s environment boss Cllr Sean Woodward, said: “If you are comfortable speaking to groups of people from all backgrounds and believe that you could use your enthusiasm to help change their habits, this could be a great opportunity for you.

“Volunteering can be a rewarding way to learn new skills, gain confidence and obtain references to help with further career development.”

The Love Food Hate Waste campaign is led by environmental charity Wrap.

The campaign aims to raise awareness and advise people on how to reduce the amount of food they waste.

Volunteers will be expected to commit around 30 hours a year, including some evenings and weekends.

Knowledge of food or prior experience of home composting is useful but not necessary as training and support will be provided.

Ring Zoe Cooke on 01962 832286 or Mike Culver on 01962 846764 or email waste.prevention@hants.gov.uk to find out how to become a volunteer champion.