CANCER Research UK’s fundraising shop in Otley has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers.

The shop, on Kirkgate has seen a sharp fall in the number of supporters who have been able to help out since the coronavirus crisis began.

And nationally Cancer Research UK says that while stock donations initially increased after the first lockdown the number of volunteers returning afterwards fell by nearly half in some places.

The situation has prompted a nationwide call for help as the organisation works to claw back millions of pounds in lost income which is needed to get life-saving research back on track.

Manager at the Otley Cancer Research UK shop, Chris Smith, said: “We’re very lucky to have a great team in Otley but sadly not all our volunteers have been able to return, largely due to health reasons.

“After the first lockdown eased, many shops were operating with only half the usual number of volunteers. The situation has improved a little since then but we’re still 30 per cent down on volunteer numbers.

“That’s why we’re appealing to anyone who can to give the gift of their time this winter. Our shop volunteers are like family to us so it was heart-breaking to close our doors and stay at home during lockdown.

“I can’t stress enough how vital these volunteers are. Without their help, we simply would not be able to fund our outstanding doctors, nurses and scientists.”

There are lots of different jobs people can help with, from sorting donated stock to steaming and labelling clothing or serving at the till. Chris added: “No experience is necessary to apply, just motivation and the desire to be part of a team.

“Many volunteers come in just one morning or afternoon a week, or sometimes just help over the busy lunchtime period. A few hours can make a huge difference and it can be a great way of adding to your CV. “

Last year Cancer Research UK shops in England raised more than £75 million but, due to store closures and events being cancelled, the charity is expecting a £160 million drop in income over the year ahead.

Head of Retail Operations at Cancer Research UK, Josephine Mewett, said: “The fight is on to continue our research to save lives and our amazing army of volunteers are right at the heart of our efforts.

“COVID-19 has slowed us down but we will never stop. But with a devastating impact on our income, we’re making difficult decisions to reduce the scale and scope of our work.

“When shops reopened at the end of June our volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help us get back to business. However, many have not been able to return. So we now need almost 3,500 extra volunteers across the UK to come forward.”

To find out more visit cancerresearchuk.org/shopvol.