A CHARITY shop in Andover is calling for good quality unwanted Christmas presents to be donated, rather than re-gifted or thrown away.

The Blue Cross, in High Street, always need books, clothing, household items, ornaments, toys and soft furnishings, and this festive period is calling for your help.

All proceeds of sales from the charity's shops goes towards helping the homeless, injured and sick pets in the care of Blue Cross.

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David Palmer, head of retail at Blue Cross, said: “We are always looking for donations for our charity shops across the UK. Blue Cross is helping more pets than ever before during this cost of living crisis. All pets just want to be happy, healthy and fed and we are doing our best to give pets in our care the best Christmas they have ever had while we continue to find them new homes and the treatment they need.”

Blue Cross charity shops and eBay also offer bargain options for party frocks in time for New Year’s Eve and last-minute gift ideas and greetings cards ahead of the big day.

The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is a major concern. Many pets are facing hunger, illness or abandonment this festive season. Blue Cross is dedicated to helping as many pets and their people as it can, but the escalating costs and increased demand for its services are pushing charity resources to the limit.