Unwanted gift drive in aid of charity

If you’ve been lucky enough to get what was on your Christmas list, charity shop Willow on the Marlowes are asking you to donate old items or unwanted gifts, which could prove high-value stock for them.

Shop manager Nicole White says: “Rather than let gifts get buried and forgotten we are asking people to bring them in to us.

“Their unwanted gift items and clothes can prove to be high-value stock for us, helping Willow raise much needed funds to provide many more Special Days for seriously ill young adults across the UK.”

She added: “We have seen some high-quality pre-loved items donated in recent weeks, including two gorgeous chairs which are in the Willow Shop now, plus some new, un-opened goods.

So while you’re out shopping in the January sales, remember to pop in to the shop where you can find some real bargains.”

The start of the New Year presents the perfect opportunity to have a general de-clutter and to support a good cause at the same time.

Willow’s Chief Executive is leading the example by selling much loved childhood toys on eBay, in aid of Willow.

David White, Willow Chief Executive says: “While packing my Christmas decorations away for another year, I happened upon my beloved train set and cars in the loft.

“At more than 40 years old, they are now much sought after collectibles and I hope that my eBay listing will raise more than £200 for Willow.

“I urge everyone who has items collecting dust in their loft to consider this easy way to raise valuable funds for charity.”

With people looking for a new challenge for the new year, the shop is always on the look out for new volunteers.

Starting this week is local lady, Emma Young, from Adeyfield who herself benefited from a Willow Special Day after being diagnosed with incurable breast cancer.

Mother of three Emma is giving up her time to support the charity so close to her heart.

Willow is the only national charity working with seriously ill 16 to 40 year olds to fulfil uplifting and unforgettable Special Days.

Founded by former Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife, Megs, Willow is a lasting memorial to their daughter Anna, who died of cancer aged 31.

To date, Willow has provided 12,000 Special Days for young adults diagnosed with a life-threatening condition such as cancer, motor neurone disease, cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease.

Willow can arrange a collection for large donations.

To find out more, pop in to the Willow shop at 222 Marlowes, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1BJ, call 01442 257 239 or visit www.willowfoundation.org.uk/shop