A POPULAR charity shop boss is retiring from her role after 16 years.

Mary Scott took on the role of manager at Cumbria Cerebral Palsy's Brampton shop on Front Street after initially asking her friend if she could help out for the day.

"I used to have a lady when I worked in a care home whose husband had cerebral palsy and I know one of the ladies that used to work here," explained 66-year-old Mary Scott, who lives in Longtown.

"I said, 'Can I spend the day with you (in the shop)?' and she said, 'of course'.

"After that day she said to me, 'I think you should run this place'.

"At the time I said, 'oh no', but I am thankful I did. It is like coming home and at the end of the day it's another day, roll on tomorrow.

"My staff have been spot on and the atmosphere is like being at home and you get to know people."

Although she says she will miss the job, Mary says it is time for a "new face to do different things".

Part of her decision relates to her health.

"If there is a second spike, I don't want to be here (in the shop)," she said.

"I've got to make sure my health is right."

It is vital that people support the charity, particularly during coronavirus, according to Mary.

"We need the money. Everyone needs money to keep their charities going.

"There are a lot of people with cerebral palsy, so it is very important we support them.

Janet Russell, who also works at the shop, will be sad to see her go.

"It will be very hard to replace her," she explained.

"All members of staff love her to bits, it is just like a family.

"I don't want to move on, I love doing it."

Mary is encouraging potential volunteers to get in touch with the shop.

"I do live my job but I need to do me now and sit and read books and watch television.

"I have enjoyed most of it."