AN animal charity's new shop is appealing for volunteers and gifts of goods.

The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals' (PDSA) store, at 120c Front Street, Chester-le-Street, County Durham, will open on Friday, April 26 and play a vital role in raising funds for the treatment of sick and injured pets.

Contributions can be taken to the shop or arrangements made to collect them from supporters' homes.

Funds raised from by the shop will help pets at PDSA PetAid hospitals in Newcastle, Gateshead and Sunderland.

For further information call freephone 0800 854194.