DURING his planning for early retirement, Andy Horswell was thinking a lot about how he was going to spend his time.

But one evening, he saw a former colleague of his being interviewed on BBC North West Tonight about her new role as a director for St Luke’s Hospice, Winsford.

Andy wasn’t all that familiar with the work St Luke’s do caring for adults living in mid and south Cheshire with cancer and other life limiting illnesses, but listening to Claire Langston’s interview, he was inspired to make contact to talk about how he could lend a hand.

That was almost four years ago, and Andy, who has had a long and successful career in the travel industry, says he has never looked back.

"Everyone there is just excellent at what they do," the 57-year-old said.

"I do it mostly because I like doing it. I didn’t know I would when I first started, but there’s a brilliant atmosphere about the place.

"Everyone’s really friendly, and all the people are the same way I am, so I fit in well. That’s what keeps you going really."

Volunteering two days a week at St Luke’s warehouse on Winsford Industrial Estate, Andy sorts donations of furniture and gets it ready for sale, either from St Luke’s warehouse shop, or their shop in Delamere Street.

Andy, from Lymm, added: “There are a lot of jobs people can do. If people get in touch with the hospice, I’m sure they’ll find something to accommodate you.”

St Luke’s Hospice is now actively recruiting new volunteers, particularly for their trading sectors.

With nine shops situated all over Cheshire, they play an integral part of allowing St Luke’s to continue their vital work within the community.

Adelle Gillet, St Luke’s volunteer coordinator, said: "St Luke’s Hospice simply couldn’t exist without the support of volunteers.

"By volunteering with us, you’ll be joining our team of more than 650 dedicated people who give their time freely to help our charity. So, even if you just have a few hours to spare, your time really can make a big difference.

"Our volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds and each have their own motivation for spending their time with us.

"Many volunteers enjoy the social aspect of volunteering and the chance to gain work experience, learn new skills or their existing talents to good use."

To find out more about how to become a volunteer, please contact Adelle at volunteer@slhospice.co.uk or call 01606 551246.