Volunteers are urgently needed to help revamp a Wimborne charity shop.

The Lewis-Manning Hospice is hoping to bring a French flavour to its shop in Crown Mead, but needs support from the community and local businesses.

The redesign comes after successful schemes at the charity’s shops in Winton and Poole. Guided by retail consultant Louise Croft, who will work closely with manager Jill Holden, the Wimborne shop will close for a week from next Monday, November 24 to undergo a complete transformation.

With a nod to the town’s French connection – its twin town is Valognes in Normandy – the shop will have a fresh, warm and welcoming feel, with volunteers using distressed wood and vintage styles. However, help is needed from anyone who can offer their services or materials for free.

Louise said: “We are desperately in need of help from skilled tradesmen, such as electricians, plasterers, builders and carpet or flooring fitters.

“We also need people who might be able to help us source lighting, mirrors, furniture and trinkets, or help get donations of paint, wood, or varnish.

“The store is our largest and has an amazing selection of furniture, so we are desperate to allow more space for this, and give it the beautiful display layout it deserves.

“We want to give our customers a shopping experience to savour. Every contribution helps, even just an afternoon putting up wallpaper, or providing us with a couple more spotlights.”

The charity, which offers free palliative care and support for local people with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses, currently has eight shops across Dorset.

To get in touch call Louise on 01202492602 or email Louisec@lewis-manning.co.uk