A CHARITY shop raising money for St Richard's Hospice is celebrating 20 years since it opened in Droitwich.

The St Richard’s Hospice shop, in Gurneys Lane, is staffed by a team of 35 volunteers including Sandra Preece - who has worked at the store since its launch in 1996.

Fiona Edge, shop manager, said: "We wanted to celebrate the milestone and say thank you to all our loyal customers who donate items to the shop or buy our pre-loved goods.

"It's thanks to them that we are able to help raise funds to support St Richard's care of patients and their loved ones.

"I am also full of admiration and thanks for all our volunteers, past and present, who make it possible to continue running the shop in our community."

St Richard’s Hospice recently launched a campaign aimed at recruiting 101 volunteers in 101 days to help run the charity’s 17 stores across Worcestershire.

Last year the charity's shops raked in £2.37 million through the sale of good quality clothes, bric-a-brac, books and furniture donated by local people.

Danny Corns, commercial director, said: "We have developed a successful chain of shops across the county and are very grateful for the dedication of our volunteers and the local community who generously support the hospice.

"In order to continue this success we would welcome new volunteers to join our team. Not only will their volunteering help to make a difference to our patients and families, but they will be at the heart of the community; make new friends, gain new skills and have fun.

"We realise that many people have a very busy lifestyle but would still like to get involved in volunteering so we are flexible to fit in with their needs.

"Just a few hours a week in one of our shops, in the short or long term, will make a big difference."

St Richard’s is offering taster sessions in their shops around Worcestershire.

To find out more, visit your nearest St Richard's Hospice charity shop or go online to strichards.org.uk