A GOLCAR community shop has just celebrated its seventh birthday.

The By and Buy store in Sycamore Court encourages people to drop off their unwanted clothes and bric-a-brac.

Money raised is then donated to local groups and individuals.

It opened on April 26 1999 and in that time a total of over £70,000 has been given out by the shop.

The Drop By Shop, next door, is also flourishing. It is now open Monday through to Friday mornings for tea, coffee and a chance to sit and talk.Advice points such as the Listening Point and information displays are always available.

Sue Starr, of the shop, said: "By and Buy continues to be a very important part of the neighbourhood.

"We continue to get some wonderful donations and we can't thank people too much for their generosity.

"The kindness of all our volunteers and supporters has enabled us to donate a large amount of money to local groups and individuals.

"The shops have received valuable support from Neighbourhood Renewal, Voluntary Action Kirklees, Awards for All, The Bishop's Development Fund, Kirklees Housing, Community Learning Chest, Huddersfield Common Good Trust, and our first supporter, Teddy Craft."

Sue added: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers, our customers and all our generous supporters for all their dedication to making the shops a really valuable part of the local community."