A Dorchester depot providing furniture for low income households has served its 12,000th customer.

The Dorset Reclaim outlet at the Poundbury West Industrial Estate reached the landmark by helping local mum Tracy Austin.

She and her husband turned to the service after they were forced to leave their home and move into temporary, unfurnished accommodation with their two young children.

Dorset Reclaim supplies good quality furniture, electrical and household items to families with a household income of less than £25,000.

It also encourages people to re-use and recycle furniture and other items by providing a free collection service and provides training and volunteering opportunities for local people.

After visiting the depot to help turn her new house into a home, Tracy said: “Not enough people know about this place, but the people here are so friendly and so helpful.

“Even the kids love coming here.”

She added: “I suffered from pneumonia recently and found it uncomfortable sleeping.

“I wanted to buy a memory foam mattress but could not afford the prices in shops.

“I then found one in Dorset Reclaim and now I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”

The Dorchester depot for Dorset Reclaim opened in 2006, after the service was first founded in 1998.

Dorchester manager Mark Harrison said: “We are really keen to help people such as Tracy and her family – knowing we can make a difference to someone’s quality of life is very rewarding for all the staff and volunteers who work here.

“I also want to say a big thank you to all the generous local residents who donate such good furniture and electrical items for us to pass on.”

Dorset Reclaim has now managed to prevent more than 25,000 tonnes of household waste going to landfill.

Project manager Ray Tovey said: “It is so good to hear Tracy’s really positive comments about the service we offer.

“Our staff and volunteers always try their best to help at all our depots, and they will be so pleased to be acknowledged.”

For more information about how to help Dorset Reclaim or become a customer contact Mr Tovey on 01202 773384 or email ray@dorsetreclaim.org.uk