LONDONERS' generosity has helped the British Heart Foundation (BHF) raise £5,927,000 in the past year.

Those who have donated items, bought goods from there or given their time to volunteer have all contributed to the London shops’ success.

This staggering amount has enabled the BHF to help fight heart disease in the capital by funding life saving equipment, healthcare professionals and research.

BHF area manager Mira Palmer said: “We’re truly overwhelmed with the ongoing generosity of the people of London.

"We’re so grateful to all our supporters and want to thank every single person who has joined us in the fight against heart disease.

“People often don’t realise that the sofa or dress they donate to or buy from their local BHF shop actually raises vital funds and helps pay for anything from a defibrillator for a community centre to a local heart support group.

“We couldn’t fund this life saving equipment or research in London without the support of the local community and we hope they will continue to support BHF shops for many years to come.”

All BHF shops have an in-store community board with information on local events and heart support groups.

Around 13,500 people die from coronary heart disease in London every year.

BHF shops sell anything from clothes, shoes and handbags to CDs, DVDs and books, while BHF Furniture & Electrical stores sell items like sofas, dining tables, beds, wardrobes, TVs and fridges.

To book a free collection service for donations, call 0800 915 3000 or visit www.bhf.org.uk/free.

To find out about volunteering in a BHF shop, visit www.bhf.org.uk/volunteer