A HOSPICE will be operating a new van fleet to help keep its allimportant charity shops wellstocked.

Teesside Hospice operates a number of vans throughout the area to assist 13 charity shops across the Tees Va lley.

The fleet collects and delivers what the hospice calls "pre-loved" furniture and clothing to help keep stock up-to-date.

With the agreement of a partnership with Northgate Van Hire of Darlington, Teesside Hospice's costs have been almost halved, plus an extra van has being added to the fleet.

The logos of both Teesside Hospice and Northgate Van Hire will be displayed on the vans.

Tracy O'Donnell, charity shops area manager, said: "We can now improve our service to our supporters even more while also making savings. The additional van will allow for extra collections and deliveries, and we will have a van specifically for our new Teesside Hospice Vintage Wardrobe."

The new Vintage Wardrobe van will be used to visit people's homes to host Teesside Hospice Vintage Wardrobe parties and will also help to collect fruit and vegetables from the hospice's allotment to sell in its shops If you would like to volunteer and become part of the Teesside Hospice team by driving a van, call 01642-816390.