A CHORLEY charity shop will hit a milestone this summer when it reaches the half a million pound turnover mark.

The Cancer Research Campaign shop, in Chapel Street, dubbed the 'Harrods of charity' by manager Cath Almond, has an army of 30 volunteers.

"It opened on April 26, 1996. I was manager from then and it has gone form strength to strength," said Cath. "A £100,000 a year isn't bad for a charity shop."

Former businesswoman Cath, who also describes the store as her 'baby', is driven by a personal tragedy. She lost both her parents to cancer and has been determined to see the shop succeed. "I feel very loyal to it and responsible for it," she said.

Cath says the shop stocks a lot of designer wear. Items come from far and wide -- as do the people who drop in. The visitor book has comments from Americans even.

But it's more than just a shop, it's a meeting place for a friendly chat, or somewhere to find out more about cancer. "We get people who have just been diagnosed who just come in and want a chat," added Cath, who also manages the charity's Clitheroe shop.

A Spring launch will help bring the half million target, most of which is profit, nearer.

Cath paid tribute to all the helpers -- but added: "We are always on the lookout for more." If you are interested in volunteering, ring 01257-270290.