HELMSLEY residents are being invited to take on Age UK’s Big Bag Challenge.

The town’s shop is taking part in a nationwide stock appeal for the charity.

Supporters of the cause are being urged to donate as many bags of quality unused clothing or goods as possible.

Age UK hopes to receive 100,000 bags across the country in the two weeks from October 5.

Avril Taylor-Wilson, Manager at the Age UK Helmsley shop, urged people to help.

She said: “We’re asking everyone in Ryedale area to take on The Big Bag Challenge.

“It really couldn’t be easier – just drop a bag of unwanted items to the Age UK Helmsley shop.

“Only with your support can we continue our work to raise vital funds to support lonely older people both in the local area and across the UK and give everyone a chance to love later life.

“Any bag will do and every bag you fill really does count.”