Keighley’s Sue Ryder charity shop is proving a massive success.

The Cavendish Street outlet has made double the £40,000 profit targeted when it opened last May.

Takings are about £6,000 a week, compared to the £4,000 budgeted for.

“We are absolutely delighted with how it’s gone,” said shop manager, Jackie Burke.

“Like every business, we get targets and we are way above those.

“The store has beaten all expectations and goes from strength to strength, supporting the local Manorlands hospice and creating a new shopping experience for the community.”

Mrs Burke added: “In a difficult economic climate, the store has taken on a number of paid staff, as well as supporting and encouraging volunteers, who may have wanted to work for Sue Ryder for personal reasons or to develop their skills and attributes through voluntary work prior to getting back into employment.”

The premises, which sells everything from electrical items and clothes to toys, currently has a team of five paid staff and 25 volunteers.

Mrs Burke said three more people were being recruited and someone was being taken on to work upstairs, which is now being used as an area to sort and prepare stock for that and other Sue Ryder shops.

They are working with West Yorkshire Probation Service, which has helped them with staffing.

Mrs Burke said the success had also enabled them to fund a van, for the collection and delivery of furniture and clothing on a large scale.

She is seeking overnight parking for the vehicle, and is appealing to businesses for help.

“We would like to hear from anyone able to assist,” she said. “In return, we would promote the business’s support of Sue Ryder and Manorlands.”

Mrs Burke can be contacted on 01535 604860 or jackie.burke@sue rydercare.org, or call into the shop.