Barnard Castle YMCA shop volunteers urge others to join them

Barnard Castle’s YMCA shop is calling for people to volunteer their time to help transform the lives of local, young people.
Anyone interested in getting involved in volunteering or who just wants to see what it’s all about, can visit the shop to  have a look round, meet the team and have a cuppa.
The YMCA said there are  opportunities on offer to suit everyone – from students looking for work experience to people who have recently retired or want to do something different and rewarding,
Jan Palmer, shop manager said: “Whatever the reason, however much time you have, we have something for you.
“YMCA shops help young people build a future and by volunteering you too can be a part of transforming the lives of young people and your community.”
Bruce Mockford has been volunteering in the shop, in Horsemarket, for nearly two years. He said he goes because he feels valued and appreciated. He works mostly in the back area, tagging and steaming the clothing and the YMCA described him as an asset to the smooth running of the shop.
 Sue Brown has been volunteering in the shop for four months and is between jobs.
She spends most of her time on the shop floor, keeping it presentable, working the till and chatting to the customers.
“I had been keen to volunteer for quite some time and thought my local YMCA shop would be the perfect opportunity. I am hoping to it will give me the chance to use my experience, gain new skills, meet new friends and, most importantly, give something back.”
 Funds raised by YMCA retail shops go towards helping important areas of the group’s work.