TWO volunteers from the Grove House shop in Fleetville were guests of local MP Anne Main at a reception at the House of Commons last week.

Local women, Christine Wright and Margaret Addicott, were bowled over by the unexpected invitation to visit Westminster. They were chosen as they are among the longest serving volunteers at the hospice shop – in fact Christine has been behind the counter since the shop opened almost nine years ago.

Margaret said: “Christine and I had a wonderful time at the reception; it was good to meet so many other people involved in voluntary work in the area. We were honoured to be shown around by Anne Main herself. It was fascinating and amazing to be walking on hallowed ground where so many great people had lain in state.”

Christine explained why she volunteers: “I am a local girl and have lived in the Fleetville area my whole life, Grove House is a local charity and they do fantastic work supporting local people with cancer. The shop is a great place to be and we have many regular customers who pop in and out and there is a really friendly atmosphere, I always enjoy my days there.”

Grove House has four charity shops in this area and between them they bring a combined income of more than �95,000 for the hospice. For more information about Grove House phone 01727 731000 or visit www.grove-house.org.uk