JUST over a year ago, the Primrose Hospice broke new ground by taking over the operation of the visitors' coffee shop at Blakenhurst prison.

The project has proved to be hugely successful for both parties, with the service being provided to families and friends of inmates during visiting hours and prison staff who take advantage of the service outside normal visiting hours.

The coffee shop is open seven days a week all through the year except Good Friday and Christmas Day.

There are currently seven staff who work on a shift basis to provide cover during open hours but to continue to maintain the current level of service, particularly during times of sickness and holiday, the Primrose is asking for volunteers to help out on an ad hoc basis.

Primrose director of fundraising Jane Wardman said: "We are desperate for a number of volunteers who would be willing to help out in the coffee shop serving beverages and light snacks to visitors over the counter.

"We need a bank of volunteers that we can call on, sometimes at short notice and to include some weekends, to support our existing staff."

No training is necessary as full training will be provided but it is essential volunteers have their own transport due to the rural location.

Anyone who would like any further details or an application form should call the Primrose fundraising team on 875444.