BRITISH Heart Foundation (BHF) shops across Worcestershire have raised £189,000 in the past year, which has helped fund life-saving research into heart disease.

The amount includes money raised at two BHF stores in Kidderminster, the charity’s general shop and its furniture and electrical store, both based in Worcester Street.

This has enabled the foundation to fund 102 defibrillators and nine health care professionals across the county.

Cathy Poultney, the charity’s area manager, said she was thankful for the continued support and donations from local people.

“We’re truly overwhelmed with the ongoing generosity of the local community in Worcestershire,” she said.

“We’re so grateful to all our supporters and want to thank every single person who has joined us in the fight against heart disease.

“People often don’t realise that the sofa or dress they donate to or buy from their local BHF shop actually raises vital funds and helps pay for anything from an echo machine in their local hospital to a community heart support group.

“We couldn’t fund this life-saving equipment or research without the support of the local community and we hope they will continue to support BHF shops for many years to come.”

The foundation’s general shop sells anything from clothes, shoes and handbags to CDs, DVDs and books, while the furniture and electrical stores sell items such as sofas, dining tables, beds, wardrobes, TVs and fridges.

There are also two donation banks in Wyre Forest where clothing and books can be donated.

The clothing bank is located at 26 Birmingham Road, in Blakedown, while the book bank is at Lodge Hill Garden Centre and Nurseries.

The shops also offer a free collection service for donations. For more information visit bhf.org.uk/free