NEWLY merged charity shops are appealing for volunteers to help them flourish.

Cancer Research UK was created in February by the merger of the Cancer Research Campaign and Imperial Cancer Research Fund, making it the country's largest charity.

Now, its three local shops, in High Row, Darlington, Silver Street, Durham and High Street, Redcar, are urging the community to support them.

Area manager Ann Thompson said: "These really are exciting times for us, and it's great to be a part of it.

"All of our shops have been busy raising money for Cancer Research UK for some time, with the help of their supporters.

"A time of change such as this gives us a great chance to seek out additional help.

"My volunteer teams are fantastic, but we are always in need of extra help, mainly behind the scenes, sorting the donations generously given to us by the community."

To achieve its goals, the new charity will draw upon the expertise of its 3,000 research scientists, doctors and nurses and its 684 charity shops, and will spend £130m a year on research.

Anyone who can spare as little as two hours a week is urged to visit any of the charity shops or contact them on (01325) 288 782, 0191-384 8260 or (01642) 498 539.