BRAND new stock and a team of local volunteers are needed by a Kendal charity shop.

Staff at the British Heart Foundation, at Highgate, are calling for generous locals to give up either a regular slot to work in the shop or half an hour to have a clear-out at home.

“We’re always desperate for stock and for volunteers and between Christmas and New Year there’s always a lull,” explained the store’s assistant manager, Carole Morris.

“Over Christmas people will have been given new things so now is a great time to donate unwanted items.

“The New Year is also a great time to start something new, like giving up time for a charity.”

Now the cold weather has set in the store is in need of warm clothing like coats, scarves, jumpers and boots.

All the profits made by the shop fund ‘the fight against heart disease’.

Ann Lomas, area manager for BHF, added: “We absolutely rely on the support of the local community to keep us running and without their vital donations we cannot meet the demand for good quality winter clothing.”

The shop offers a free collection service so anybody who cannot bring items into the shop is asked to contact 01539-728660.

A coffee morning will be held at Kendal Town Hall on February 14 between 9.30am and 12.30pm, when staff hope to meet potential new colleagues.