VOLUNTEERS are being sought to work in charity shops - and could benefit by improving their health, according to a recent survey.

Healthcare charity Sue Ryder Care is appealing for people to become volunteers at stores across the country, including the shop at Westbourne Road, Marsh.

The move coincides with a survey of 600 volunteers which revealed almost half had experienced improvements in their physical health and fitness.

A quarter claimed their weight had dropped while a third of volunteers aged between 18 and 24 said volunteering had helped them drink less and smoke fewer cigarettes.

Alison Holland, Yorkshire's regional manager for Sue Ryder Care, said: "Every new year people try to give up a bad habit.

"This year we want people to make a positive resolution and become a Sue Ryder Care volunteer."

Call at the Marsh shop or visit www.suerydercare.org to volunteer.