It would be really good to have a contacts list where specific unwanted items of any kind could be given directly to an agency/charity rather than a shop; for example old but usable gardening tools for poor farmers in some parts of Africa.Anyone any ideas for direct aid of this kind?

Sounds a very good idea. Dont know of anywhere though

In theory it's a nice idea but in reality it's quite costly to organize transportation.

Check out this link for an A-Z of recycling and disposal of unwanted items as some schemes which collect unwanted items are listed:

http://www.veoliaenvironmentalservices.co.uk/sheffield/pdf/A-Z_Recycling.pdf

It would be really good to have a contacts list where specific unwanted items of any kind could be given directly to an agency/charity rather than a shop; for example old but usable gardening tools for poor farmers in some parts of Africa.Anyone any ideas for direct aid of this kind?

Freecycle will fulfil part of your needs. Gives your old stuff a second life.

I'll take owt for nowt, pm me with your unwanted gold!