Local families are being encouraged to refresh World Book Day outfits without spending anything, as the district’s School Uniform Swap Shops begin collecting pre‑loved costumes for the event on Wednesday, March 5.

The council‑run swap shops – based at Wymondham Leisure Centre, Long Stratton Leisure Centre and Diss Swim Centre – invite residents to donate outgrown outfits and pick out something different in return.

Everything is free, supporting families looking to reduce costs while keeping items in use.

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World Book Day has become one of the most recognised dates on the school calendar. Across the UK, the charity‑led event encourages children to celebrate stories by dressing as favourite characters from books they love.

Many schools invite pupils and staff to arrive in costume, turning classrooms into crowds of wizards, detectives, classic picture‑book characters and comic heroes.

Swap shop organisers say they are particularly looking for storybook characters, superheroes, animal outfits, fairytale costumes and simple accessories such as hats, cloaks and masks.

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The School Uniform Swap Shops run year‑round, offering families free access to school clothing while reducing textile waste across the district.

Cllr Graham Minshull, South Norfolk Council’s cabinet member for supporting people, said: “World Book Day should be about celebrating stories and creativity, not worrying about cost. Our uniform swap shops are a fantastic way for families to support one another, save money and reduce waste at the same time.

"Donating and reusing costumes helps keep perfectly good items from going to waste while making sure every child can take part and feel included.”

For more information, visit southnorfolkandbroadland.gov.uk/recyclingevents

This article has been published as part of Born & Read in Norfolk – a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing, headline sponsor RWE and sponsor YouGarden. Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk

© Eastern Daily Press