Local residents are encouraged to donate their unwanted items to their local YMCA shop this year, to support the charity’s work across the North East.

YMCA is asking for unwanted items to be donated to its charity shop to help the organisation continue its work in the next year and help even more people in the local community.

Wendy Teague, Shop Manager Newton Aycliffe shop said: “Most of us have wanted to de-clutter and freshen up our homes and wardrobe.

“With the winter coming to an end and spring hopefully arriving, we’re asking members of the local community to donate their unwanted items to our local shop to help provide valuable services for those who need it.

“Our shops are stocked with the most interesting and unusual items and we are always looking for more. Donate your unwanted items to us and we can guarantee your donations will find a new home through our lovely customers.”

Anyone who wants to make a donation can drop of their items at the shop Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, larger items can be collected on request.

YMCA Newton Aycliffe is part of the wider national YMCA federation that, in total, supports 228,000 young people. YMCA was first created in London in 1844 by apprentice draper George Williams, later knighted to become Sir George Williams. It now operates in 119 countries across the world, supporting almost 600 million people.

To find out more about what the YMCA does to help in your community, visit: www.ymca.org.uk