Cupboard clearance call by elderly charity

A WIDNES charity is urging residents to declutter and donate their unworn or unwanted clothes to support lonely older people after a record amount was given last year.

Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge launches in October and is calling on Widnesians to support its annual stock appeal by donating as much quality unused clothing or goods as possible.

Whether it’s a summer slip dresses, last season’s sandals or toys the children have outgrown, the Age UK shop in Widnes wants people to have a clear out and donate a bag full of unwanted items to raise much needed funds for the charity’s work supporting older people.

It begins on Monday, October 9, and volunteers in the town’s Age UK shop will be on hand to receive bags of donations, with the goal of reaching 100,000 bags of goods in just two weeks.

All types of quality goods are accepted, including clothing, shoes, books, accessories and homewares, all of which are sold on.

Age UK Widnes shop manager Christine Kane said: “Taking part in The Big Bag Challenge couldn’t be easier, which is why we’re asking everyone in Widnes to get involved.

“Simply donate at least one bag of quality items you no longer need to the Age UK shop in Albert Square, Widnes (next door to Iceland). With your help we can continue to raise vital funds to support older people in the local area and across the country.”

Last year the Age UK Widnes shop received a record number of bags as part of The Big Bag Challenge with the team are keen to beat it this year.

Past items donated to the Age UK Widnes shop include ladies clothes, shoes and handbags which were snapped up by savvy shoppers, helping to raise vital funds to for the charity’s work.