In this day and age of financial strain I understand completely the reasons why people turn to ever increasing methods to turn their unwanted clothes and items into cash – but there is a downside to all of this.

Charities are also facing bigger bills on top of increased demand for their services whilst the usual streams of fundraising are being pinched tightly, for example, donations left in wills have reduced whilst lower levels of donations are reaching charity shops.

Imagine if the charities closed their doors and stopped their work. Healthcare would plummet as the NHS cannot take up the burden, children would no voice, homeless would have no shelters, animals would be poorly treated or starve.

It would be a sad place to live for all. So could I just appeal to the public’s heart to not forget us all and bring us a bag or two of goodies please.

Donors are a charities’ life blood and we’ll be extremely grateful for your much needed support.

Natalie Hewitt Manager of Cats Protection Shop.

Great Western Road.

Dorchester