A STOURBRIDGE charity shop has launched a new campaign to encourage people to donate their unwanted clothes, shoes and accessories.

The Salvation Army's Open Your Hearts & Wardrobes campaign will run for six weeks, with the aim to get people to have a clear out items they no longer wear or use to raise funds for the charity's vital social and welfare services throughout the UK.

The work of charity includes providing overnight shelter for homeless people, supporting victims of trafficking, providing hot meals and companionship for lonely elderly people and offering rehabilitation support to those seeking to break free from alcohol or drug addiction.

Jayne Sargeant, the charity's area manager, said: “We’d like as many people as possible to participate in the campaign. The average UK household owns around £4,000 worth of clothes, and about 30% of it hasn’t been worn in the last year.

"We want to encourage people to think about what’s lurking in the back of their wardrobe that they might be able to donate. Whether it’s a shirt that doesn’t fit, a party dress that hasn’t seen daylight for years, or a handbag that’s been replaced with a newer model – whatever you can spare – each and every donation will help us raise money to support the valuable work of The Salvation Army.”

She added: “We want to encourage people to stop and think about how something seemingly small, like donating a few items to a charity shop, really can make a significant difference to the lives of others.”

Donations of toys, homeware, books, CDs and DVDs will also be accepted at the charity shop, located in the Ryemarket.