A four-metre telescopic fruit picking tool to stop the waste of hard to reach apples and pears is now on loan at Kilburn Library in Queens Park.

The Kensal to Kilburn Fruit Harvesters group is behind the initiative which allows residents to borrow the tool for up to three days.

Michael Stuart, the group’s coordinator, said: “We believe this is the only library in the country where people can borrow a fruit picking tool.

“We’re thrilled Kilburn library is so imaginative to offer this service, which is a fantastic community resource.

“And if people pick more than they can use, the group can also help distribute it to local schools and community groups.”

The group has 200 volunteers and harvests 1.5tons of produce at this time of year which goes to good causes such as schools and Brent Food Bank.

Anyone with enquiries or wishing to volunteer should email kensaltokilburnharvesters@gmail.com