A RECRUITMENT drive for volunteers has been launched by St Helena Hospice.

It’s after people willing to give up as much or as little time as they can afford at its network of shops.

It has five stores in Colchester, two in Frinton and shops in Halstead, Clacton and Dovercourt.

Heidi Chaplin, a volunteer at the St Helena Hospice Vintage shop in Head Street, Colchester, said: “I like volunteering because you get to meet lots of different people, from completely different walks of life.

“I’m gaining retail experience and customer service skills, and learning about the behind the scenes side of retail is really exciting.

“You can find some hidden gems in the charity shops.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for St Helena Hospice, go to www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/volunteer