A hospice serving residents of Hertsmere is feeling the effects of the economic crisis with a decline in donations and sales at its charity shops.

The Peace Hospice, in Peace Drive, Watford, which cares for people with terminal illness, announced this week it has seen a sharp fall in the number of people donating furniture and other “good quality” items to its stores.

The hospice’s retail director Steve Rose said: “The success of our shops is dependent on the items we sell, which is why we are dependent on good quality items being donated, particularly furniture.

“Unfortunately we have seen a big drop in donated furniture to our shops, which has meant we have less furniture to sell and as a result are not taking as much money in our tills.”

A total of £3.5 million needs to be raised this year for the hospice to run and develop its services, with 25 per cent of this coming from the NHS.

Joanna Allison, manager of the Peace Hospice’s Radlett store, in Watling Street, said: “We are looking for new stock and especially hoping people will donate some of the better quality items despite the economic climate, because we know people are willing to pay a little more for these.

“Also people who donate such items will know they will be helping to raise a good amount of money for the hospice and the vital services it offers to people in Hertfordshire.”

The Peace Hospice cares for people living with a life limiting or terminal illness and supports families from across South West Hertfordshire. It provides inpatient care, day care, an outpatient service, a hospice at home service as well as bereavement support.

Anyone wishing to donate furniture to the hospice can call 0208 420 1525 or email gary@oxheyshop.eclipse.co.uk. To donate items to the Radlett store, visit 108 Watling Street, Radlett, or call 01923 852613.