A CHILDREN'S hospice is asking people to donate their unwanted Christmas gifts to its charity shops.

Almost a third of people unwrapping Christmas presents will be given at least one unwanted gift according to research by Triodos Bank.

But instead of burying them at the back of the wardrobe, Acorns Children's Hospice is asking people to give the items to their shops in Worcester, Malvern and Upton-upon-Severn.

The charity needs clothes and other unwanted items to boost stock levels at its stores and help raise vital funds to continue its work supporting children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families including at their hospice on Bath Road, Worcester.

Kevin Ives, head of retail at Acorns, said: “We’re all familiar with the slightly-too-stripy shirt or the jumper that’s just not you, items that sit unloved in the back of the wardrobe.

“We’ve seen a dip in stock levels overall so also need children’s toys, ladies handbags and shoes.

"We’re urging people to bring these items to an Acorns shop and let someone else find a bargain.”

To find your nearest Acorns store and how to donate, www.acorns.org.uk/donate-goods.