VOLUNTEERS from a company helped run a charity shop for the day.

The 13 Southern Electric metering staff, from the Edison House offices, in Winchester Road, Basingstoke, offered their time to the British Heart Foundation in Wote Street.

Some served behind the counter while others unpacked donated items or tidied up. They also rattled buckets outside the shop, collecting an impressive £570 from passers-by.

Their impressive efforts were part of Southern Electric’s Community at Heart scheme in which every member of staff is given a day away from the office to do voluntary work for a community project or charity of their choice.

Store manager Tony Temple said: “They were just amazing. It was really refreshing to see as we are quite low on volunteers at the moment, so really needed the help.”

Chantelle McSweeney, Southern Electric team manager, said the staff loved helping out. She added: “We had a fun day and were really thrilled by how much clearing we did. Our company has close links with the charity, having raised over £1million for BHF with the help of customers in the past. We also have a tariff for customers who want to help the charity.” To volunteer in the BHF shop, contact Mr Temple on 01256 473885.