Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 6 September 2021
DR. LUKE Evans, Member of Parliament for Bosworth, has paid a visit to Cancer Research UK’s branch on Castle Street in Hinckley town centre.
He visited the branch on 19 August, where he met with the store manager, Alison Davies and shop volunteers, after he had learnt that they are in need of more volunteers, and donations, to ensure it remains well-stocked.
Whilst at the branch, Dr. Evans was shown around by Alison Davies, who explained the donation process from the moment stock arrives to how the donations are used to help raise as much money as possible for the charity.
Luke discussed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic with the team and stated that he was ‘pleased’ to hear that the branch is ‘bouncing back’ well, thanks to support from high street shoppers and the work from volunteers.
Now, the MP is encouraging people to keep the shop in mind for donations as they accept menswear, womenswear, children’s clothing, accessories, jewellery, homeware, linens, books, CDs, DVDs and electricals.
Donations such as the aforementioned items are ‘vital’ to help ensure that the branch remains well-stocked and helps them to keep raising as much money as possible.
Through 2020 and 2021, the charity raised a total of £582m, despite challenges caused by Covid-19, with the funds going towards supporting pioneering work in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
£48m of the money comes from revenue made by the trading activities of their retail shops across the country, such as in Hinckley’s high street.
Other ways that money can be raised include fundraising for Cancer Research UK, or by taking part in charity events, such as “Race for Life”.
Dr. Luke said: “It was great to go down and meet Alison, along with the rest of the team, at our local branch of Cancer Research UK.
“The branch is dependent on donations from the public, as well as volunteers giving up their time.
“If you’ve got a couple of hours to spare each week, why not consider helping out, it’s a great chance to meet new people, or develop new skills.
“If you are due to have a clear-out and have items which could go to a new home, do keep the Hinckley branch of Cancer Research UK in mind.
“The money raised helps to fund such vital work, and [I give] my thanks to the team for having me down!”
Branch Manager Alison Davies said: “We’re extremely grateful to Dr. Luke Evans for volunteering his time to visit our shop and thank him for his support.
“The Cancer Research UK shop in Castle Street is on the lookout for more volunteers who are able to join the fight against cancer by helping out in store.
“There are a variety of roles available, from serving customers to dressing windows.
“Cancer Research UK relies on the generosity of the public to fund its life-saving research, and with help from the people of Hinckley, the charity aims to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.
“Many of our volunteers work just one morning or afternoon a week, or sometimes a mid-day shift to help over the busy lunchtime period.
“A few hours can make a huge difference. No matter how much time a person can give or what their experience, we are urging people to get in touch.”