A charity which helps needy people furnish their homes at low cost is struggling to meet demand.

The Keighley Furniture Project is especially in need of white goods, such as cookers and washing machines.

It has recently celebrated two cash windfalls totalling £166,371 from the Big Lottery Fund's community recycling and economic development programme.

The money has been invested in an extra collection vehicle, testing equipment and staff, allowing the charity to set up a white-goods workshop.

Anne Sheriff, project manager, said since it started in 1979 it had always received a plentiful supply of household furniture.

But it was struggling to meet the demand for second hand white goods such as fridges, freezers, cookers and washing machines.

She said: "Lots of people will probably have invested in new appliances over the Christmas season. We can help them while helping those in need at the same time by taking unwanted items off their hands and putting them back to good use elsewhere in the community."

The project is based in Springfield Mill, Oakworth Road, and also offers training in catering, DIY and decorating and electrical skills.

People wishing to donate should telephone 01535 601999.