THE woman behind a popular Rossendale charity has gone to new pastures, in a bid to make a success of another charity.

Linda Hardman, took over the running of Mencap, after her father set up the charity 17 years ago.

Mencap is now being run by the committee, while Linda, who has built up a wealth of contacts over the years, attempts to make a success of Wallness, a charity supporting The Manchester Children's Hospital, in Pendlebury.

Linda has a personal interest in the charity after her son, Aaron, 16, spent 18 months in the care of Pendlebury after it was discovered he wasn't making white platelets.

Linda said: "It got to a stage where I felt like I needed a change and a new challenge. My heart will always be with Mencap, but now I feel I am ready to try a new challenge."

The shop is situated in Burnley Road East, Waterfoot and Linda, along with volunteers Les and Kath Marston, are searching for clothing and bric-a-brac to sell in the shop.

If anybody can help they should call into the shop or contact Linda, Les or Kath on 01706 876545.