A Harpenden charity shop has made an urgent appeal for volunteers to swell its ranks.

Healthcare charity Sue Ryder is on the hunt for staff to work in its shop in Dark Lane.

Money raised at Sue Ryder shops helps the charity deliver care at its seven hospices across the UK, which support people living with conditions like cancer, heart failure and lung disease.

Harpenden shop manager Steve Harris said: “We’d love some extra support at our shop so we can maximise our sales to support Sue Ryder’s care for people with life-changing conditions.

“We’re looking for people to help out with a range of things, like handling furniture donations, till duty and basic administrative duties. We welcome help throughout the week and are especially interested to hear from people who are able to volunteer at weekends and on Tuesday afternoons. No previous experience is needed as we provide training, and volunteering is a great way to pick up new skills, especially if you’re looking for a new challenge or thinking about a career change.

“Whether you can spare an afternoon or are interested in longer-term opportunities, anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to pop in to the shop for a cup of tea and a chat with our friendly staff and volunteers to find out more.

‘’We’d also love some extra donations of good quality furniture, books and bric-a-brac, which can be dropped off at the shop. Alternatively, you can arrange to have your furniture collected from your home, for free, when you fill out the form at www.sueryder.org/furniture.’’

Terry Pocock, a current volunteer at the Sue Ryder Harpenden shop, added: “When I retired I found I needed something to keep me busy, and volunteering at Sue Ryder turned out to be ideal. It’s a great way to meet new people and a pleasure to give something back to the community.’’

For more information, visit the Sue Ryder Harpenden shop Harpenden HWRC, Dark Lane, off Grove Road, ring 01582 713 997 or email harpendenreusecentre8168@sueryder.org.