A Devizes charity shop has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers after temporarily losing more than half of its team, who are self-isolating during the pandemic.

The Barnardo’s store in Wine Street is usually supported by almost 20 volunteers but this has dropped to fewer than ten as a result of the coronavirus.

This is due to many of the team being older residents who are shielding themselves or others during the current crisis.

Barnardo’s store manager Cynthia Hart said: “We completely understand why some of our volunteers are choosing to remain at home and we look forward to welcoming them back whenever they’re ready.

“In the meantime we continue to keep in touch with many of them on a regular basis to check they’re OK.

“However, so many people have been clearing their homes during lockdown and furlough that we’re snowed under with donations and therefore need to recruit as many helping hands as possible.

“It’s also taking longer to sort through the donations as they need to be quarantined for 72 hours.”

Volunteers can help behind the scenes by sorting donations and steaming clothes, or on the shop-floor by arranging window displays, styling mannequins, replenishing stock or serving customers at the till.

Safety measures have been put in place for all teams, including aprons, gloves, masks and hand sanitisers.

Cynthia added: “Volunteering is a great way to make new friends and learn new skills, together with gaining important qualifications and experience which can really help in the search for work.

“Some use it as a stepping stone to employment while others simply enjoy the social aspect.

“Whatever their reasons for joining us, they’re helping to provide a positive future to disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.”

The Barnardo’s store in Devizes is open Monday-Saturday from 10am-4pm and on Sundays from 11am-3pm.

Customers are asked to wear a face covering, respect social distancing and pay by contactless where possible, with Perspex screens at the till.

Donations are currently accepted on Friday and Sunday mornings, with a two-bag limit, but please call ahead to check that storage space is available.

Call 01380 721247.