A FIFE MSP rolled up her sleeves and got stuck in yesterday afternoon to help staff at the Cancer Research UK charity shop in Cowdenbeath.

Helen Eadie, who represents Dunfermline East, was there to encourage more folk to give of their free time to help worthy causes such as charity shops.

Her visit was timed to coincide with Volunteers’ Week, which kicks off tomorrow.

The Labour MSP was joined by Ann Crawford, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer twice and has been volunteering at the shop for the past two years.

Mrs Crawford (59), from Ballingry, was first diagnosed with breast cancer some 31 years ago when she had to have a lumpectomy and radiotherapy.

The cancer returned in 2001 and she had to undergo surgery and further radiotherapy. She is currently in remission and volunteers on a regular basis at the shop in Cowdenbeath.

She said, “The reason I started to work in the shop was to give something back for all the care I have received.

“Working in the shop, along with the support of my family, has helped me to the stage I’m at today.”

Mrs Eadie added, “I’m delighted to support my local charity shop and to find out more about the hard work that goes on behind the scenes here.

“I’ve been lucky to have an experienced volunteer like Ann to show me the ropes.

“Meeting her proves just how vital it is that the community helps raise funds to beat cancer.”

The aim of Volunteers’ Week is to recognise the contribution made by the millions across the UK who help out and to encourage more people to become involved.

www.cancerresearchuk.org/volunteering

*Pictured: from left—Ann Crawford, Helen Eadie and shop manager Linzi Forbes.