WITH the summer now with us, think twice before ditching your wellies and shoes — they could be given a second life in Africa.

Operation Sunshine, a south west-based charity sending aid to poor countries in Africa, is in desperate need of good quality shoes of all sizes and wellington boots, for people in areas such as Zambia.

The charity places high priority in sending good quality clothes, shoes and other items. Sending a container to Africa is very costly and when people have only two shirts and one pair of shoes, they must be able to stand up to hard wear.

Football boots and strips are welcomed but must be cleaned first and computers should be Pentium IV or newer in full working order with a flat-screen monitor.

The charity does not accept furniture, except school furniture, or children's bicycles, although working adult bicycles are needed.

Because of pressure of space at the base at Hurdwick Farm, Tavistock, all deliveries, other than one or two bags, should be made by prior arrangement with Ann Tregarthen on 01822 614343.