A CHARITY shop opening in Seaham this week is looking for volunteers.

The Salvation Army Trading Company Limited on Church Street will open its doors to the public on Thursday, but is still looking for support.

A volunteer open day is being held on Wednesday and anybody interested in helping is encouraged to come along.

Catherine Hamou, from The Salvation Army, said: “We rely on the generosity of our volunteers, who are key members of the team in all our shops.

“There are lots of different jobs that need doing from sorting through the donated stock to window dressing and helping customers with their purchases.

“Volunteering is a fantastic way to learn new skills or brush up on old ones and help support the work of The Salvation Army, which includes homeless services, elderly care, professional addiction services, family tracing and much more.

“Volunteering can be a lot of fun too. You certainly get to meet lots of new people.”

The shop will sell good quality donated items including clothes, accessories, books, DVDs and household goods, and all profits raised will be given to The Salvation Army to help fund work throughout the country.

Ms Hamou said: “We are also always grateful to accept donations from the public, whether it’s clothes, shoes, accessories or homewares.

“The only things we ask is that the items are clean and in good condition, and that no electrical items are included as we cannot safety test them.”

For more information on Salvation Army charity shops visit www.wear2shop.co.uk