THERE are plenty of ways that you get directly involved in the action at the Festival of Thrift. Here’s a rundown of top things to do to make the most of the free frugal fun.

TAKE A TOASTER

Well not just a toaster; a guitar, phone, lamp or anything else you can carry that needs to find a fix. The folks at the Fix It Cafe will show you how to fix it, not fling it.

REVAMP YOUR OLD COMPUTER

Whether it’s an old Windows XP or Vista machine that is no longer in use as you think it hss had its day, bring it along to the Durham Free Software Skill Share stall and they will show you how to get it working again using free open source software. There will be demonstrations too.

VISIT THE SWAPSHOP

Search the house for those items that you no longer require and swap them for something you do. Swap a coat for a casserole dish or a trowel for a hat at the SwapShop.

REDISCOVER OLD VINYLS

Rediscover any old vinyls and bring your favourite tunes along for the Festival’s resident DJ Neil Massey - at the Routemaster Bus Bar - to play.

BIKE CARE

Treat your bike to some TLC with an MOT from Bike Stop.

BRING YOUR COSSIE

Pack a swimming costume and enjoy a relaxing trip around town in a bathtub filled with hot water. Vespaqua is a theatrical wellness experience and is travelling from the Netherlands to be at this year’s festival.

CELEBRATE TRAIN HERITAGE

The theme of this year’s festival is steam and there will be a huge train scene set in Lingfield House - but there’s no point in having a wonderful scene without the trains. So take your trains along and play!

WEAR YOUR MOST DAPPER OUTFIT

Festival staff are looking for the best dressed thrifters and inviting them to take to the stage as part of the OxGlam Fashion Show. If you are picked out of the crowd you will be awarded a handmade rosette.

DONATE UNWANTED FOOD

Donate your left over fruit and vegetables to Jamallot; the Jam and chutney making factory. Either drop in any unwanted goods or stay and do the making.

SEE ALSO: 10 top tips for foodies to savour at this weekend's festival