THE largest charity shop in the north of England is set to open in Burnley.

And the YMCA shop, in Anchor Retail Park next to Iceland, will let customers drive directly to the door to pick up or drop off their donations.

The outlet, which is due to open its doors next month, will be selling furniture, clothes, books and bric-a-brac.

Paul Freethy, north west district retail manager, said: "We are very excited by this ambitious venture, the first of its kind in northern England and based on the model of American charity retailing.

"One big advantage being that customers can drive their donations of stock directly to our door without the worry of parking in the town centre.

"Alternatively our driver can make arrangements to collect furniture from customers houses."

The shop will be offering a selection of computer, bedroom and living room furniture, which Mr Freethy said was ideal for landlords furnishing accommodation or those moving into their own place for the first time.

And the charity is currently searching for volunteers to help staff the shop ahead of the big opening on June 23.

Mr Freethy added: "Volunteers play a crucial part in our YMCA shops. If you can spare just a few hours to help in our shop in Burnley you will be helping to make a big difference to the lives of people who rely on the YMCA every day.

"The YMCA is the largest provider of beds for the homeless every day of the week."

The shop will be opened by a selection of special guests and a YMCA busker who will be singing an acoustic rendition of the YMCA song.