Cancer Research UK is urging people across Dorset not to leave donations on the doorsteps of its shops whilst lockdown continues.

To protect staff, volunteers and customers during the coronavirus outbreak, all the charity’s stores are temporarily closed.

Without anyone to accept them, donated items left outside shops could be damaged, stolen or become a hazard to the community.

Jenny Makin, Cancer Research UK spokesman for the county, said: “Now more that ever we need the public’s help to continue our life-saving work, so we’re grateful to the people who are using the extra time at home to detox their wardrobes and clear out their cupboards.

“However, we ask that they sort and store items at home ready for safer times. With around 95 people diagnosed with cancer every day in the south west, we remain tirelessly committed to making progress in the fight against the disease. This means when are shops are able to re-open, we will need vital donations.

“In the meantime, people can still support our research through our online stores.”

For more information, visit cruk.org/ways-to-shop