A FURNITURE charity doing its bit to help needy families keep some dignity has been given a £1,000 cash boost to help keep its trusty van on the road.

The charity Armchair, based in Worcester and staffed by volunteers, has been tirelessly working to collect and deliver good quality unwanted furniture and deliver it to thankful households for many years.

So when city-based housing association Sanctuary Group granted cash to the service, the charity’s bosses were delighted.

The money will be spent on vital repairs for the charity’s sturdy Luton van.

Mel Kirk, chairman of Armchair, said: “There are always families and individuals who need our help and this funding will allow us to reach even more people across Worcester. Sanctuary’s timely help is keeping the furniture on the road for the folk who so desperately need it.

“We rely solely on funding and to receive this generous cash boost is a wonderful Christmas present for us and the people we help.”

The cash has come from Sanctuary’s Grand Ideas fund. Armchair gets about 1,200 pieces of furniture and household objects donated by members of the public each year, helping some 400 people.

Christa Ripley, Sanctuary’s regional manager, said: “Furniture can be such an expense, especially for those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet.

“So charities like Armchair have an important role to play in the community. The Armchair team should be commended for the wonderful job they do to provide much-needed support to so many people.”

Money from the housing and care home association’s fund is still available to community groups, and bid information can be found by calling 01905 334271 or by e-mailing peter.hoarle@sanctuary-housing.co.uk.

l Margaret Jones, Armchair charity trustee, has also thanked Worcester News readers who responded to the charity’s appeal for furniture and bedding. She said: “We had an amazing response and I wanted to thank people who got in touch.”