THE mayor of Newtown has asked the town to support its charity shops.

Councillor David Selby said: “I have been asked to point out that they have to follow the same guidelines that all shops and businesses have to follow and are in the main staffed by volunteers.

“They have to restrict the number of people in their small shops and in particular have to be careful with the stock donations.

“Donations must be bagged and contain goods in good condition and suitable for sale.

“Charity shops welcome your donations, but they are not a dumping ground for goods that should be recycled or disposed of. They cannot accept goods left on their doorsteps.”

Cllr Selby urged the public to let the shop know of a planned visit in advance to help ensure public safety.

He said: “Some shops are asking that donors should make contact before they visit the shop.

“This is to help protect them and the volunteers to maintain social distancing and helping the flow in the shops.

“I am also told that the shops are short of volunteers, if you can help them during this vital time please contact the local shop or the Newtown Network on 0333 996 1124.”