SIR – At this time of the year, our thoughts turn to the rapidly approaching festivities at Christmas time.

We, the volunteers here at Oxfam, Duckworth Lane, try to be inventive in raising funds to support the vital work done throughout the world by our organisation.

We would like to appeal to all your readers, particularly those who are holding Christmas fairs and the like in the next few weeks.

Many of these events, while being successful, often mean that at the end of the sale, the organisers are left with saleable goods, but no storage facilities – and the tip is frequently a quick solution!

Here at Duckworth Lane, we can use virtually anything that is surplus to requirements and will be willingly accept it towards our vital work. There is free parking right outside the shop – just 200 yards from the BRI.

We would ask your readers and event co-ordinators to drop off goods during shop opening hours, as any goods left on the doorstep are always stolen – sad, but a fact of life!

Paul Townsend, volunteer, Dukworth Lane Oxfam, Bradford