THE TAVISTOCK branch of a national charity which sends goods to the destitute in Africa is appealing for volunteers with a particular skill ? mending sewing machines.
Hundreds of old and broken sewing machines are donated to Operation Sunshine each year and there are now just too many for one person to cope with, says charity worker Felicity Derry-Thomas.
?We have a wonderful man ? Dave France ? who has been doing the job free of charge since the branch started 15 years ago but we feel Dave could now do with a bit of assistance.
?They are desperate for sewing machines in Africa and most of the time it is just a case of checking them over before we send them out.?
Garments are made on the streets in Africa with people sitting by the side of the road working their sewing machines.
?They do not have dress shops like we do ? people just hand over a bit of cloth and ask for an article of clothing to be made,? said Mrs Derry-Thomas.
?There must be someone out there who is good with their hands and could spare us an hour or two ? there is no minimum commitment, if they can just fix one machine that is fine.?
Operation Sunshine in Tavistock sends out a 20 foot ship?s container of goods every two months to Africa with vitally needed items such as kitchen equipment, educational and medical supplies, baby and children?s clothing, tools and craft items.
Anyone who wants to donate some items or volunteer their help can contact Mrs Derry Thomas on 01822 614146.
The next delivery to Africa will be on September 6.