As the festive season approaches, it’s time to have a clear-out in aid of good causes.

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre has launched its Rags to Riches Appeal to raise money for the Florence Nightingale Hospice in Aylesbury.

The appeal was launched on December 1 and hopes to raise thousands for the local charity, which provides palliative care for those with life-limiting illnesses, until January 4.

People are being urged to have a pre-Christmas clearout of any unwanted items, including shoes, clothes and accessories and donate them to the theatre in aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice, who will then sell them in their shops.

The donation point is located in the theatre’s main foyer.

Actress Suzanne Shaw, who will star as the Fairy Godmother in Aylesbury’s Christmas panto, Cinderella from December 12, is supporting the appeal.

She said: “I am delighted to be backing the Rags to Riches Appeal. I know the theatre works closely with the hospice and that they recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, so what better way to continue the celebrations than with a festive appeal.

“I hope the people of Aylesbury and beyond dig deep and clear out their cluttered wardrobes – it’s a good excuse to make space for all those Christmas pressies.”

The community are rallying behind the appeal, with Thame business, Media Ace, providing artwork for the appeal and Aylesbury company, Your Party Bunting, printing the bunting and signage for free.

Sue Jenkins, executive director of Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, said: “I would like to say a very big thank you to the team at the Waterside Theatre for their fantastic support of Florence Nightingale Hospice.

“We really hope the local community gets behind this wonderful Rags to Riches Appeal, which in turn will help raise vital funds to support palliative care for families affected by life-limiting illness on our doorstep.”

Bucket collections will be taking place after all performances of the family favourite, Cinderella, and will be raising money for both Florence Nightingale Hospce and children’s charity When You Wish Upon A Star.