A FORMER video shop is to become home to a new community clothing centre in Clacton.

Tendring Citizens Advice Bureau is planning to put the old Blockbusters shop in Old Road to good use by setting up a community clothing hub.

They want to ensure poverty-stricken residents have access to a free clothing, shoes, bedding, kitchen equipment, toiletries and school uniforms.

The charity has secured funding to pay for a member of staff and rent, but not to refurbish the shop.

CAB chief executive Linda Isaac said “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of Tendring residents who donated thousands of items to our Winter Warmers appeals.

“This time we are asking you to get involved in the practical side of things and help us to spruce up and equip the shop.

"We need paint, wood, screws, hanging rails, items of furniture, a skip, signs, volunteers with paint brushes, and local trades to help us.

“We’d love to have a community facility that we could all be proud of but we can’t achieve it on our own.”

The centre will sell some items to raise money for the project, but people assessed as “genuinely in need” from anywhere in Tendring will not have to pay.

Anyone who can help should call Diane Boyd on 01255 377080 ext 142.