VIDEO: Volunteering for Willen Hospice

The hospice needs £3.4 million every year and over a quarter of that comes from the sale of pre-loved items in its stores.

And it doesn’t have to end at Christmas. The charity, based in Willen in Milton Keynes, asks that you think twice about throwing away any unwanted gifts in the new year.

Manager of the charity’s Leighton Buzzard shop, Kate Thompson, said: “We want quality Bric-A-Brac and clothing.

“Also on sale are books, DVD’s and childrens toys, so providing gran didn’t knit a three headed jumper then it is worth dropping it into your local store.

“And if you have a few hours spare and want to meet new people then why not try volunteering?

“Volunteers from fifteen to fifty give anything from a few hours to a few days a week to help keep the shelves stacked and process donations.

“We couldn’t operate without our volunteers.”

Diana is one of fifty dedicated team members at the Leighton Buzzard branch. She decided to work at the shop when she retired five years ago.

“I’ve enjoyed it ever since, no two days are the same,” she said.

Another volunteer, Lionel, agreed: “I like the people, you get to meet the community and its just a fun place to be. Anybody is welcome.”

Click on our video above to meet Lionel and the team at the Leighton Buzzard branch or alternatively find out more on giving the ultimate gift this Christmas in this video from Willen Hospice.