A FLINTSHIRE charity stalwart has now raised £100,000 for a domestic abuse support charity.
Doreen Lee, from Hawarden, has supported Domestic Abuse Safety Unit (DASU) North Wales for over a decade.
While she has volunteers to help, the 74-year-old runs her charity shop, based on Holywell High Street, virtually on her own - with all proceeds donated to DASU.
DASU supports those suffering mental, physical, sexual or financial abuse at the hand of a partner, ex-partner or persons with whom they have had a relationship. It offers 24-hour emergency access to a network of safe houses.
Doreen has been inspired to support the charity having witnessed domestic abuse first-hand as a child.
"This cause is something that is very close to my heart, and very important to me," she said. "I just wanted to be able to help other people out there - men, women and children.
"I just want to thank every single person who has supported me and enabled me to raise this money over the years. Every single penny we raise goes to DASU.
"I'd also like to make special thanks to Holywell Town Council for its support, and Holywell Museum for its support and friendship. I'd also like to thank a special person in my life who doesn't want to be named - but always has my back."
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In the last three years, she has become full-time at the shop - helping to raise more money.
She said: "Being able to run the shop has also helped me get through some really sad, hard times in my life. I lost my brother two years ago, very young, with Alzheimer’s. My sister and I were devastated but the shop kept me going."
Doreen said she has been informed by DASU that the money raised has even helped save lives.
"Anyone who's in a situation that they feel uncomfortable with - be brave, and go and get help because it's there," she added.
The shop relies solely on donations, and Doreen has appealed for businesses to donate surplus items.
"We need a new carpet, so if any businesses out there have one they can donate, that would be great!" she joked.
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