Martin Docherty-Hughes MP visited the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland at Clydebank to find out more about how it raises funds for pioneering cardiovascular research.
The MP for West Dunbartonshire was welcomed by store manager Mark Johnston, and met with the Clydebank store’s team of staff and volunteers.
In addition to receiving a tour of the premises, which opened in October 2017, Martin heard about the work that goes into generating vital donations, sorting and displaying stock and making sales that all contribute to the £17.2m of sales generated by BHF Scotland’s 75 stores.
Thanks to donations and sales in Clydebank and across the country, the BHF is able to fund £70m worth of life saving research to support the fight against heart disease in Scotland.
Across Scotland there are currently around 670,000 people living with the effects of cardiovascular disease, with an estimated 12,600 of those here in West Dunbartonshire.
Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said:
“I’m very grateful to Mark and his team at the British Heart Foundation store in Clydebank for giving me the opportunity to discuss the importance of tackling cardiovascular disease.
“Although there are now fewer Scots suffering from life-threatening heart disease, there are still too many people affected by these devastating illnesses.
“The work of charities such as BHF is vital in further reducing the number of people affected by coronary heart disease. Well done to all the staff and volunteers in Clydebank who work so hard to raise funds in support of the BHF’s lifesaving research.
“I’d encourage everyone in West Dunbartonshire to have a root around at home and donate any unwanted items to their local BHF Scotland shop or give the gift of time by volunteering.”
There are 75 BHF Scotland shops and furniture and electrical stores across the country which can only open their doors thanks to generous volunteers and donations of previously loved items.
To find a BHF Scotland shop or furniture and electrical store and learn more about donating items or volunteering visit http://www.bhf.org.uk/shops
