Parents in Peterborough have discovered a novel way to combat the annual back-to-school budget blues: a free pop-up shop that swaps uniforms instead of wallets. More than 600 people queued outside a former burger bar on Bridge Street to snag second-hand school clothes, from coats and blazers to prom dresses, all without spending a penny.

Hannah, 30, whose eldest daughter starts secondary school in September, told the BBC that branded uniforms "really hit a hole in the budget." She's been squirreling away cash since the previous school year ended, but this pop-up offers a community-driven alternative. "This is a great way to give back to the community," she said, presumably while clutching a blazer that didn't cost a month's grocery money.

Victoria, 33, echoed the sentiment, noting her five-year-old daughter has "shot up" in size and needs bigger clothes. "She's five but she's in six and seven-to-eight stuff," she explained, adding that free events help her stay "quite savvy" during the holidays. "I'd probably be more stressed if these things weren't here though," she admitted, proving that free stuff is indeed a stress reliever.

The event, organized with help from Peterborough City Council, also aims to reduce waste. "Supermarkets and shops are selling too much and there's much more that can be shared," said Cristina Fernandez-Hierro from the council. She emphasized that the pop-up empowers people: "They are not just 'having charity' they are actually making a difference." Because nothing says empowerment like reusing a school tie.

Local artist and community volunteer Roland Burt is hoping to make this a permanent fixture. "I'm surprised no-one else has done it," he said, recalling a childhood memory of crying because he lacked a uniform. Chris Wiggin, the council's environment member, confirmed they're exploring options for a year-round space and accepting donations of old uniforms. "We're looking at our options going forward of how we keep this as a year round option," he said, adding that donated uniforms can find "new homes."

So for now, Peterborough parents can breathe a little easier, knowing that the only thing being stretched this September might be the seams of a hand-me-down blazer.