CANCER Research UK is urging Globe readers not to leave donations on the doorsteps of its shops whilst lockdown continues.

To protect staff, volunteers and customers during the coronavirus outbreak, all the charity's stores are temporarily closed.

Without anyone to accept them, donated items left outside shops could be damaged, stolen or become a hazard to the community.

Jane Bullock, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for the North West, said: "Now more than ever we need the public’s help to continue our life-saving work, so we're grateful to people who are using the extra time at home to detox their wardrobes and clear out their cupboards.

"However, we ask that they sort and store items at home ready for safer times.

"With around five people diagnosed with cancer every hour in the region, we remain tirelessly committed to making progress in the fight against the disease. This means when our shops are able to re-open, we will need vital donations.

"In the meantime, people can still support our research through our online stores."

Cancer Research UK’s online marketplaces eBay and depop sell preloved items and the charity’s online shop offers a range of gifts, as well as a Cancer Care collection for all stages of cancer treatment and recovery. These stores are all currently open and raising crucial funds.

Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, the charity was able to spend more than £30 million in the North West last year on some of the UK’s leading scientific and clinical research.

For more information, visit www.cruk.org/ways-to-shop.