Isle of Wight artisan gives new lease of life to Hovertravel’s used rubber

Ryde-based operator Hovertravel has expanded its HoverGreen range of souvenirs through a new partnership with Offkuttt, an artisan maker from the Isle of Wight.

Taking the rubber after it’s served its original purpose on the hovercraft, OffKuttt produces designer fashion accessories including bags, keyrings and wallets.

Aine Naylor at Offkuttt said: “We connected through Instagram, and when I collected the rubber for the first time, I knew immediately we could give this amazing material a second life.

“I was inspired to create beautiful products from a material that would otherwise end up in land fill or as part of anonymous recycling process.

“Together with Hovertravel we are celebrating the provenance of the rubber and crafting a range of exclusive accessories where the material and its story adds to the design and appeal.”

The Offkuttt range is launching with two handbags, a card wallet, key rings and earrings.

These products will be initially available from Hovertravel’s terminal in Ryde.

Loretta Lale, head of commercial at Hovertravel, added: “We’re on a journey of continuous improvement with our environmental efforts and are always looking for exciting ways to maintain our zero waste policy.

“OffKuttt’s product range is highly appealing and will engage our customers and others, providing an excellent opportunity to tell our HoverGreen story and hopefully encourage others to find their own innovative ways to manage waste.”