Emma McClarkin MEP rolls up her sleeves for Cancer Research UK

Emma McClarkin MEP got stuck into work as a volunteer at the Cancer Research UK shop in Nottingham last week (Friday 27th July).

Ms McClarkin rolled up her sleeves to encourage local people to give their time to the charity.

She was joined by Philip Kelly who has been volunteering at the Nottingham Cancer Research UK shop in Friar Lane for the past six years.

Rachel Rawson, the shop manager, commented, “The people volunteering at my shop are aware of the devastating effect cancer can have and feel that by donating their personal time and effort they can make a positive contribution to help fight the disease and make a difference.”

Ms McClarkin said: “I’m delighted to be here today supporting my local Cancer Research UK shop and finding out more about the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. I’ve been lucky to have an experienced volunteer like Philip Kelly to show me the ropes.

“Meeting him proves just how vital it is that the local community continues to help raising vital funds to help beat cancer.

“It’s inspirational to meet volunteers who give up their valuable time to contribute to the smooth running of this busy shop. Cancer Research UK relies on over 40,000 volunteers across the UK and without their support vital work like the running of this shop could not continue.

“Cancer Research UK’s shops rely on donations from the public to help fund their life-saving work. So I encourage everyone to clear out their wardrobes and cupboards of unwanted clothes, CDs, DVDs, books and quality household goods and drop them off. Each bag of donated goods could be worth up to £30 to the charity or even £37.50 through Gift Aid.”

Philip Kelly commented: “Volunteering at the shop is really rewarding, and allows me to feel that I’m playing my part in beating cancer and helping the charity to continue its life-saving research. I think Ms McClarkin has enjoyed spending time here today and it’s great to see her promoting volunteering in the local area.

Cancer Research UK’s Nottingham relief shop manager, Susan Martin said: “We have a fantastic team of volunteers and I’m grateful for all their hard work. The time they spend here each week makes a huge difference. There is always work to be done, and even just a few hours a week helps enormously.

“Volunteering is rewarding in so many ways. It’s a great way to meet people, have fun and learn new skills. Working in a shop is just one way to volunteer at Cancer Research UK and help support the work of more than 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK.”

To find out more about volunteering for Cancer Research UK, please visit your local shop or visit www.cancerresearchuk.org/volunteering.