TV PRESENTER Lorraine Kelly and a leading cancer charity are urging people to “detox” their wardrobes to raise cash for cancer projects.

Not only does Cancer Research UK want to turn unwanted or ill-fitting clothes into cash, it also predicts greater demand for second-hand clothes due to the credit crunch, and needs donations to supply the expected extra customers.

According to a survey by the charity, more than one-third of people in Scotland will spend less on clothes and accessories than they did last year, in an effort to save money.

One in six people surveyed said they would look for charity shop bargains to keep up with fashion on a budget.

Also, 78% admitted to having clothes in their wardrobes they never wear.

However, only one in eight unwanted items are donated to charity, according to a report from the Institute for Manufacturing at Cambridge University.

Lorraine said, “Getting new stock is really important for Cancer Research UK, so please get involved in the charity’s Detox Your Wardrobe campaign by clearing out any unwanted clothes and accessories and taking them to your local shop.

“It’s simple—‘dig it out, bag it up, drop it off.’

“Each bag you donate could be worth up to £30, and this will go towards helping to fund Cancer Research UK’s important work.”

She added, “We all know someone who has had cancer so I hope everyone has a good sort through their unwanted items and takes them down to their local Cancer Research UK shop.”

Cancer Research UK’s Scotland spokes- man John Fyall said, “As re-using clothes and sourcing second-hand items becomes more popular, our shops are struggling to keep up with demand and are desperate for people to bring in good quality items that can be re-sold.”