THE British Heart Foundation (BHF) has launched an appeal in County Durham to encourage people to put their spare time and talent to good use by volunteering at their local BHF Shop.

Volunteers are essential to the success of the BHF and play a vital role in raising funds for the charity to help fight heart disease - the UK's single biggest killer.

BHF Shops have recently carried out extensive research across the volunteer network, which revealed that about 96 per cent of volunteers enjoy working at their local BHF Shop, with 98 per cent saying that they would recommend it to a friend or relative.

The BHF welcomes volunteers from all walks of life and has no age restrictions - enthusiasm and a desire to help are all that is required.

Ken Blair, chief executive officer of BHF Shops, said: "Most people know someone affected by heart disease and by joining the team of BHF Shop volunteers you can help the charity really make a difference.

"Without the help from local volunteers BHF Shops would not be able to raise the staggering £9m that they do every year.

"Volunteering at a BHF Shop can also be a valuable way of gaining work experience and help you learn new skills."

BHF shops can are located in Consett, Darlington and Durham.

For more information about volunteering opportunities and to find the location of your nearest shop, telephone 0870 120 4141 or visit www.bhf.org.uk/shops