Most of the residents at The ExtraCare Charitable Trust's scheme took part in a recent Clear Clutter Week and the donations have now gone to the Trust's shop which raises cash to pay for events and activities at the Charity's 28 villages and schemes.

According to Imperial's Activities Coordinator Ray Fortuin, most of the residents living in the 41 flats produced useful items for the shop, including clothing, pictures, books, DVDs, lamp shades and even a nest of tables. "In fact, there were so many items we needed a van to deliver them to the shop," he reports.

Shop volunteer Linda Walker, who inspected the produce, says it all looks saleable, particularly the electrical goods.

The nest of tables was given by resident Ruby Waterer (84) who also produced two bags of clothes, cutlery, mugs as well as other items.

And Christine Kirk (85) reports that she produced two bags of men's clothing because her husband Peter (88) has lost a lot of weight and everything is now too big for him, and one bag of her clothing because in her case she has put on some weight!

Christine says the idea of the Clutter Week was brilliant and everyone, including ExtraCare residents, will benefit at the end of the day.

Jack Howard (88) was just as keen. A widower, he sorted out a large box of DVDs, a printer and accessories and lots of hard-backed books. "I've always supported the shop and now the shop supports us," he says.

Picture: Surrounded by 'clutter' are, front left, shop volunteer Linda Walker, front right, Team Leader Coach Kelly Mayes, looking on from left, Activities Coordinator Ray Fortuin, Well-being Adviser Marion Grey, residents Ruby Waterer, Robert Fensome, Christine Kirk and David Howard.

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