Volunteers are needed to help run the Oxfam shop in South Street, Wellington, as it raises funds during the festive season to help the world’s poorest people.

Christmas is the busiest time of the year in the retail calendar, making millions for Oxfam’s work beating poverty around the world.

Volunteers are needed for a range of roles, such as manning the tills, window dressing, sorting donations, listing items online and updating social media.

Shop manager Simon Parkinson said: “Christmas is the best time of year to be in an Oxfam shop – with lots of festive goodies on sale, our mission is to spread good cheer and raise vital funds for Oxfam’s work in relieving poverty.

“Put simply, without volunteers we could not open. Volunteers really are the heart and soul of our shop and we rely on them and appreciate their contribution hugely. We do all we can to make sure every volunteer has an enjoyable time, and gets what they hope for out of the experience.”

As well as stocking pre-loved clothes and homeware, books and music, the shop stocks an ethically sourced range of new products from the Sourced By Oxfam range which are popular Christmas presents and decorations.

The items, which include cards and gift wrap, are made by craftspeople around the world who are paid a fair wage for their work.

Oxfam accepts volunteers from the age of 14, but all under 18-year-olds must have the consent of a parent or guardian. Volunteers can give as little as four hours a week, on a temporary basis, or they can be permanent.

Simon added: “At Oxfam you can gain retail experience, find a supportive community of volunteers on your doorstep, improve your communication skills and help make a difference.”

Protecting staff, volunteers and customers from Covid-19 remains a priority. Screens are in place at tills with readily available hand sanitiser and masks.

Anyone interested in volunteering can find more information at the shop.