Penzance charity volunteer David Hignett is retiring after 17 years.

David answered an ad placed by Good Old Furniture Available (GOFA) for someone to PAT-test (portable appliance test) donations.

GOFA collects household goods to sell or donate to local families and individuals.

The team works with other organisations, such as Live West, Breadline, PZ Women’s Aid, as well as the local councils, assisting people on low incomes to have items they would maybe struggle to purchase new.

They accept all types of furniture, white goods and household appliances and will collect and deliver goods.  David has tested more than 13,000 electrical appliances, which otherwise would have ended up in landfill, enabling them to have a second life. 

A spokesperson for GOFA said: “As a charity, we rely on a small number of paid staff and numerous volunteers to provide a valuable and much needed service, particularly in these present times.

“We will be sad to see David go but wish him all the best for the future.” 

Anyone wanting to step in as the new PAT tester can contact GOFA on 01736 369847 or email ([email protected]).