Steve Yemm, MP for Mansfield, recently visited our Mansfield Woodhouse charity shop to find out more about Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance and explore how he can support our work.

Steve first contacted LNAA after realising he had not been aware of the shop, despite being local to the area. We were delighted to welcome him for a visit and show him around. During the tour, Steve learned more about our back-of-house operations, including how donated items are sorted and prepared for sale. He also spoke with Elizabeth Wright, Head of Retail, about the pressures currently facing the charity retail sector, including donation quality and waste control.

Steve also met several long-serving volunteers, who shared their experiences and explained the different roles available across our shops and at HQ. A memorable moment from the visit came when Steve donned a wig and sunglasses, picked up a guitar and embraced his inner rock star.

Steve Yemm said, “It was great to meet the team, get a tour and hear about everything that goes on behind the scenes – from sorting clothes to recycling – as well as the challenges they face. A fantastic local cause worth supporting”