HOSPISCARE charity shops will be claiming Gift Aid on donated items from next month.

The shops, including Okehampton's branch at The Arcade, will be increasing their revenue from Monday December 1, allowing them to claim Gift Aid tax relief on all items donated by taxpayers.

Hospiscare's head of retail Helen Hutter said: 'This is an important development for us and we are really pleased to have been able to implement Gift Aid in all our shops.

'It means that the value of donated items is even higher and it also makes our customers feel special because when they buy something we receive an extra 28%.'

Mrs Hutter said the revenue will generate an additional £50,000 a year, helping them to continue to provide vital services for people with life-threatening illnesses and their families.