A POOLE-based charity has taken inspiration from Queen of Shops Mary Portas as it appeals for more donations to its charity shops.

Lewis-Manning Hospice is urging businesses to help them boost their stock by asking their staff to have a clear-out.

And staff at the Daily Echo started the ball rolling by rummaging in their wardrobes and donating around 30 bags of clothes, toys and household items.

Maria Tidy, fundraising manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Bournemouth Echo has got involved with this and we hope it will encourage other local businesses to do the same with Lewis-Manning.

“We have 10 shops across Dorset and the biggest issue for them is getting good quality stock. I am sure that plenty of people have unwanted clothes and bric-a-brac at home but struggle to find the time to declutter and take them to a charity shop. By local businesses getting involved, it means it’s easy for staff to participate by just bringing unwanted items to work and we then collect them in our van and distribute them across our retail outlets. It really is a win-win situation.”

Kathy Dexter, digital sales consultant at the Echo, said: “This is a really easy way for people to donate to charity – it takes no effort whatsoever and you know that you are supporting a really worthwhile local charity. I hope other companies support this initiative to help Lewis-Manning.”

To get involved contact Maria Tidy on maria@lewis-manning .co.uk or telephone 01202 708470.