BRITISH Heart Foundation (BHF) clinical research training fellow, Dr Charles Percy, shop staff and volunteers were all on-board to celebrate the opening of the Hereford BHF Furniture and Electrical store at 29/30 Commercial Street, Hereford, on February 18.

The new store will provide quality, affordable second-hand furniture and electrical items for the local community. The money raised by the Hereford store will help fund essential research which could create a better future for many.

Generous Hereford locals have donated everything from suites, wardrobes, dining sets and beds to electrical items including TVs, washing machines, fridges and dishwashers. Selling a wide range of pre-owned, new, and vintage items at great prices the new Hereford BHF Furniture and Electrical store has something for everyone.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the UK's single biggest killer; around 285 people in Herefordshire die from CHD each year. To date, BHF stores have helped to fund 31 defibrillators and three nurses in the area.

The BHF is calling on people across the UK to fight back against this killer. By supporting the new Hereford store the foundation can continue to search for a breakthrough to put an end to the suffering caused by heart disease. But medical research costs money and the BHF urgently needs support to rid the UK of heart disease and the misery it brings.

Clinical research training fellow, Dr Charles Percy from Cardiff University, said, "Research funded by the British Heart Foundation has saved thousands of lives and greatly improved the quality of life for people with heart problems. But our fight against heart disease isn't over. To help us raise vital funds to support this life-saving research we need the people of Hereford to donate their unwanted furniture and electricals to the new Hereford store.

"When you consider that selling two sofas could fund a local scientist like me for a whole day, it really puts it into perspective how much this store can help us keep fighting for every heartbeat."

BHF Area Manager, Ron Humphreys, said, "We've had a brilliant response from the Hereford community, receiving a range of quirky and unique items, including coffee tables, Hi-Fis and three piece suites, but we still need more.

"We're appealing for everyone to have a root around their home and donate any unwanted items – don't forget we offer a free collection service for larger household items, having a clear out has never been so easy!"

The Hereford BHF store offers a free collection service for larger household items which can be arranged by contacting the store directly on 0844 848 9621 or booked online at bhf.org.uk/free.