THE rising cost of renting premises in Marlborough is forcing the Imperial Cancer Research Fund to close its charity shop and look for new premises.

The shop opened in Kingsbury Street about ten years ago and has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for cancer research.

But increasing rents have forced the charity to look for other premises, a search which has so far been fruitless, said manager Pat Harper.

Apart from the manager, everyone else in the shop is a volunteer. Mrs Harper said: "We have an excellent team here, all the staff are fantastic and are so committed to their work."

The shop, which is due to close on December 18, made more than £60,000 for the fund over the last year. Mrs Harper said: "This shop really does contribute a lot and it is a shame that it looks as if we will have to close."

The charity is keen to retain a presence in Marlborough but has been unable to find any alternative premises, said Mrs Harper.

She said it was vital that new premises were found, even if it was not until after the present shop has closed, to enable its valuable contribution to cancer research funds to continue.

"Everybody has in some way been touched by cancer, either had it themselves or knows someone who has had cancer," said Mrs Harper.

"It is so important that we find new premises so that Marlborough people can continue to support the charity."

Mrs Harper urged anyone who knows of any premises which are available now or coming up soon to phone the shop on (01672) 515255.