THE Age UK shop is encouraging people to pop in to pick up a festive bargain.

From presents for even the hardest-to-please recipient to party outfits and accessories, the Age UK St Helens shop has a range of items to help make the holidays extra special this year.

Age UK shops offer a wide range of pre-loved items, all of which are sold on to be loved again, raising funds for the charity's work, which includes tackling loneliness amongst older people.

Feelings of loneliness and social isolation can become more common as people get older due to bereavement, health issues, or financial challenges.

Last year, Age UK found that nearly 1.4 million of those aged 65 and over said they felt more isolated at Christmas than any other time of the year.

That's why Age UK has launched a new Christmas campaign, 'Together, we're not alone,' to raise awareness of loneliness amongst older people, as well as much-needed funds for the charity's support services, which include its Telephone Friendship Service, The Silver Line Helpline, and Advice Line.

Age UK offers a lifeline to older people who often have no one else to turn to, providing friendship, support, and advice to older people experiencing loneliness at Christmas and throughout the year.

Ryan Barton, manager at the Age UK St Helens shop, said: "We're excited for Christmas and have a wide range of clothes, toys, books, and other items that could make individual gifts for family and friends.

"Not only will you be picking up a bargain, you'll also be helping Age UK raise funds to continue supporting lonely older people.

"Please pop in and support the charity this Christmas so that we can help change the lives of older people and show them that together, we're not alone."

As well as shopping at the Age UK St Helens shop, people can also purchase one of the charity's mystery boxes, available from its eBay page.

The Age UK St Helens shop is also asking the public to donate any unwanted, quality items that they no longer need.

Age UK shops are reliant on the support of volunteers and are looking for people to join shop teams across the country.