A CHARITY shop could be forced to close if more volunteers do not come forward to help out.

The Oxfam shop in Northallerton High Street is facing a drastic cut in opening hours due to staff shortages.

Four of the shop's 25 voluntary workers have retired in the past six months, meaning numbers are stretched to cover shifts.

Shop manager Kathleen Fyle, 50, of Sowerby, said: "Six of those I have got left are over 80 and a lot of them are in their seventies and they will all want to retire sooner or later.

Anyone who can spare two hours or more a week and would like to help can call (01609) 770901.