Winsley-based Dorothy House Hospice Care claims fly tipping outside its retail shops has become a real concern as the firework season approaches.

Staff returning to work at the Melksham store on Church Street after the weekend were greeted by three sofas, two beds, three TVs and a sideboard dumped in their loading bay, leaving them unable to gain access for their van.

Manager Hugh Morrison said the items were nothing but rubbish. He said: “None of the items were saleable; some items were covered in mud and were clearly not a donation. This fly tipping happens on a regular basis but this was by far the worst example.”

There are clear signs outside all the charity’s retail shops for people to leave donations during shop hours when staff are available to help.

The charity says this latest incident is a clear case of littering on a large scale, not a donation left in good faith.

Dorothy House Director of Retail, James McDonald, said: “People don’t realise there is a cost to the hospice to remove this type of rubbish.

“We have to dispose of it because of the obstruction, health and safety issues and fire risk.

“With the firework season just around the corner the mix of a stray firework and a bone-dry mattress could be devastating.

“We are extremely grateful for everyone who donates items to Dorothy House – our shops rely on their generosity, but wilful fly tipping is not just unhelpful, it could be downright dangerous.”

Anyone with legitimate donations for any of the Dorothy House Hospice shops can find out more at www.dorothyhouse.co.uk