In these stringent times the small, local charities which hire the council shop need your help more than ever because sources of funding have been cut back.

The new shop which has replaced the one in Penny Street, Blackburn, is very easy to find as it is opposite the town hall and next door to what was the Majestic/ Essoldo Cinema.

It will be open from January 16, so please patronise it.

Every charity that uses it is a worthy cause, every penny raised is needed. and used directly.

The staff are all volunteers, unpaid but willing to give their time for good causes.

E M Eastham, Milton Close, Darwen.