A SURGE in demand for second-hand clothing has led to one charity making an urgent appeal for donations.

The Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) is desperately seeking good quality summer clothing to restock their shop in Bridgwater.

Since reopening in April, the Fore Street store has seen many people through its doors, looking for clothing suitable for the warmer weather.

Shop manager Gail Fry said: “We have been very busy since the easing of lockdown and while we have a great choice in store right now, we know we are going to need more summer clothing to meet the demand of the next few weeks.

“We think that because of the lockdown last summer, people didn’t refresh their wardrobe as much as normal. Then with lockdown in the early part of this year, they weren’t able to have a clear out and donate any preloved summer clothing.

“If anyone has any men’s or women’s clothing they no longer wear but would like to donate, please drop it off at the shop.”

They are also in need of children’s toys and bric-a-brac. Donations can be dropped off at the shop from 9am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday.

“We have donation bags at the shop if needed and suggest people phone ahead if they are planning to make a special trip or donating a lot of stock,” Gail said.

Everything sold in the shop helps CHSW provide vital care to local children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

The charity’s three hospices – including Charlton Farm in North Somerset – rely almost entirely on voluntary donations.

The hospices have remained open during the pandemic for emergency and end-of-life care and care teams have extended their lifeline support by visiting families in their own homes.

Gail said: “Every item donated and every item sold really does make a difference.”

“And not only is it such a great way to support such a worthwhile cause, recycling unwanted clothes is a super way to help the planet.”

For more information, call the shop on 01278 457 160 or visit www.chsw.org.uk/shop