AN empty Felixstowe shop is to be used as an internet sales centre by one of the world's leading charities.

AN empty Felixstowe shop is to be used as an internet sales centre by one of the world's leading charities.

The unit in Hamilton Road was previously an Oxfam shop but the charity closed the store last year.

Now it is to use the premises as an “internet hub” - selling all sorts of donations to the wider market through the web.

A team of volunteers is to be set up to run the project, putting the second-hand items which will be delivered to the site on the website, taking photos of them to help display them better, and then dispatching the goods to buyers all over the country.

There will be an open day at the shop on Tuesday February 3 from 10.30am to 3.30pm for people to find out more.

“Lots of the shops in our area have been selling in this way but on a smaller scale, but as the shop will not be open to the public this will allow us the space and time to researching the goods to find the best market and raise more money to fight poverty,” said Oxfam spokeswoman Debra Wheatley.

“We're looking for a whole team of volunteers of all ages with an enthusiasm or experience in selling in this way.

“We also need amateur/novice photographers, fashion spotters and display-minded people, as well as others to despatch and organise the sales.

“With the economic climate being as it is at the moment this could be a great opportunity not only to help others but to get involved in something in the community and learn a new skill or assist in training and mentoring others.

“If nothing else it would be a chance to meet others, get out of the house and get involved!”

Should charities be selling donated goods on the internet? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk