British Heart Foundation encourages people in Cheshire to volunteer this festive season

Dec 10 2009 by Antonia Merola, Chester Chronicle

BRITISH Heart Foundation (BHF) Shops have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people volunteering this year.

New figures released this week by the national heart charity revealed an unprecedented 40% rise in the number of people wanting to volunteer in BHF Shops in the last 12 months.

The charity says that at a time when the recession has left communities feeling disillusioned with modern life, more people than ever are looking back to when times were simpler and getting involved with their local community.

The charity is now calling on more volunteers to take the lead this Christmas, its busiest time of year, and donate some of their spare time to their local BHF shop in Chester.

Diane Locke, deputy retail director for BHF Shops said: “It’s wonderful to see so many people across the country volunteering and bringing back some community spirit.

“With the festive season being upon us, we still need more volunteers to help in our shops. There are plenty of different roles and no matter how much time you can spare we really would appreciate your support.”

For more details, visit bhf.org.uk/shops or call 0844 412 5000.