A HARD-pressed Halesowen charity shop is appealing for stock after a slump in donations blamed on the wintry conditions.

The British Heart Foundation shop was already facing stiff competition from car boot sales and ebay and has now been hit by the bad weather.

Manager Emma Thomas said the High Street store had been “severely affected” by the recent heavy snow fall.

She said: “Our stock levels have dropped even lower and I would like to appeal to local people to have a clear out and donate their unwanted items.

“Stock is the lifeblood of our shops, without donations of clothing, shoes, DVDs, CDs, bric-a-brac, toys and books we cannot raise income to fight against heart disease.”

Miss Thomas added: “I am always extremely grateful to the community for supporting us by purchasing items in the shop to help us raise vital funds to save lives locally.

“Unfortunately, the number of items we are having donated to us is declining, possibly due to the current increase in items sold at car boots and via ebay. This has had an impact on our ability to raise funds and we’d like to appeal to the public for help.”

Free collection can be arranged for people who cannot bring items to the shop themselves by calling 0121 5850748. Opening hours are 9.30am until 5pm Monday to Saturday.

“Local support is so important to us and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their ongoing support throughout the year. Your stock donations really do make a difference,” added Miss Thomas.