A charity has made an appeal to people not to dump secondhand items outside its shops.
Eden Valley Hospice says that in recent weeks it has seen an increase in the numbers of items being left outside its Carlisle Furniture Shop, in Charlotte Street, and its charity shop in The Lanes shopping centre.
It is thought the increase is linked to people having house clearouts as part of home improvements following the coronavirus crisis, as well as the current long queues at recycling centres.
Head of retail Paul Sorrell said although the charity is always grateful for donations, leaving items outside shops creates problems and can be a hazard.
Paul said: “We have to check all the items that are donated to us before sale and we are unable to do this properly if they are simply left outside the shops. We also have to adhere to National Trading Standards and there are some things we simply cannot sell. This means that often, far from helping us raise funds, it actually costs us money to have items removed.
“Leaving things outside the shops technically counts as fly-tipping, which is illegal, and could also create a nuisance and even a danger to pedestrians in the street.
“If you have items you think you could donate, please contact our retail team. If they are suitable items we would be happy to take your donations.”
Paul says the shops are always particularly grateful for donations of furniture in a good condition as these items tend to sell well.
People can contact the Eden Valley Hospice retail team on 01228 817615.
