Frome fundraisers welcomed a special guest as part of a national campaign to encourage volunteering.
The Barnardo’s shop in Kingsway Precinct was joined by television presenter Vanessa Cuddeford for Daybreak’s ‘Donate A Day’ scheme.
Vanessa, of ITV Westcountry, spent a morning interviewing staff and volunteers for a special feature on the regional news programme before lending a hand sorting donations and serving customers.
At the end of the visit she was presented with a specially-branded Barnardo’s teddy bear as a thank-you for her support.
The Frome shop is one of the charity’s most successful in the South West, receiving more than 9,000 bags of donations last year. The team includes more than 30 volunteers aged from 14 to 86 years old, who have supported the charity for a combined total of more than 120 years.
Barnardo’s manager Judith Loughlin said, “We were delighted to welcome Vanessa and show what goes on behind the scenes of a local charity shop. She spent several hours speaking to some of our youngest and oldest volunteers, as well as sorting stock, steaming clothes and helping behind the till.
“Everyone was really excited to meet her. She was very friendly and lots of fun, and it was a nice surprise for customers to find they were being served by a television presenter. We hope the programme will raise awareness of the importance of volunteering and how it can transform someone’s life.”
Vanessa said: “We all know the name of Barnardo’s, of course, but I didn’t realise just how much brilliant work they do. Everybody gives their time so generously to make the most of everything they receive. People of all ages volunteer, and they’re all so enthusiastic and keen to help the cause. It was quite an eye-opener, lots of fun and a day I’ll remember.”
At the end of the filming Vanessa bought a colourful tie which was presented to co-presenter Ian Axton to wear on the programme.
The Barnardo’s shop is open from Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 5.00pm. Call 01373 463513. Last year Barnardo’s South West supported 13,000 children, young people and families who were challenged by poverty, abuse, disability and discrimination. Visit www.barnardos.org.uk.
Pictured: ITV Westcountry presenter Vanessa Cuddeford and Barnardo’s shop manager Judith Loughlin (centre) with area business manager Belinda Germain (left) and deputy shop manager Tiffany James (right) surrounded by local volunteers.
