A voluntary collection service set up to provide free furniture to needy families has been suspended because of a lack of storage space.

The furniture recycling scheme run by the Wantage and District Lions Club collects unwanted furniture and distributes it to people setting up new homes. But, after little more than two years, the scheme has become a victim of its own success.

The group receives up to 12 telephone calls a day, from people donating or requesting furniture and appliances. It has proved so popular that it has run out of room at its Harcourt Road store room - meaning collections have ground to a halt.

The scheme is run on a strict non-profit making basis with fuel costs paid for by fund-raising activities. However, the group's lack of cash has left it unable to afford commercial storage premises.

Lions secretary Ernest Draper said: "It was a very useful service we provided to the public, but unfortunately we have had to abandon it.

"All we are doing is helping people out, but unfortunately we have got a problem with storage. Once our garage is full we can't accept any more items.

"People will still want to get rid of furniture and others setting up new homes will need it.

"We have made attempts to find more storage space without success. As we are a voluntary organisation and all the funds we raise are channelled into the community, we cannot afford the rents and rates being asked of us.

"If anyone has a garage, barn or dry storage area they can let us use, we would be most grateful."

Wantage Mayor Jenny Hannaby urged property owners to help keep the service alive.

She said: "It has been a wonderful service to people in the town. A lot of people have benefited and I hope someone will help find new storage."

Anyone who can help should call 01865 391257.