THE Salvation Army Trading Company is appealing for volunteers to help in its charity shops across the region.

The shops, located in Durham City, Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street and Redcar, sell everything from books and household items, to clothes and accessories, which are donated by the public.

Area manager Anthony Cummings said: “We rely on the generosity of our volunteers because they play such a vital role within our charity shops.

“Perhaps you have a flare for shop window dressing, maybe great customer service skills or even have a good eye for an antique?

“No matter your experience, there are all sorts of jobs that we need help with and we provide all the training you need.

“There’s also an opportunity to become a volunteer Key Holder, which is a position of responsibility with the opportunity to get involved in lots of different aspects of running a retail business.

“If you think you can spare any time at all, from a few hours to a few days a week, please do get in touch – we’d love to hear from you.”

Money raised at the shops helps fund the Salvation Army’s valuable work with people who are vulnerable and in need across the UK.

This includes homelessness and addiction services, care for older people, help at emergency incidents, support for adult victims of human trafficking in England and Wales and a Family Tracing Service.

Over the last five years, the trading company has donated over £39.5 million to The Salvation Army.

For more information on becoming a volunteer visit your local shop, located in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, Front Street, Chester-le-Street, North Road, Durham City, and High Street, Redcar.

Alternatively, visit salvationarmytrading.org