THE Oxfam shop in Urmston was in party mood this month as it celebrated the special achievement of eight of its Golden Girls.' On the November 14 1986, eight women with no background in sales set up and began to run the shop on Station Bridge - and 20 years later and they are still there having given over 160 collective years to Oxfam.

Audrey Cavagnagh, 85, from Stretford, said: "When my husband retired I wanted something to do, I needed something different so I volunteered and have been here ever since. It's a great cause, it helps everybody, the people in Urmston who want a bargain and the people in the third world."

Another of the twenty gang', Olwyn Glen, 70, from Davyhulme said: "None of us knew each other before we started here but we have all become very good friends, we all enjoy coming here."

Audrey added: "There is a very good atmosphere here we just enjoy each others company and serve a good purpose at the same time."

The group has no plans to slow down just yet. Audrey told SAM: "I didn't know that I would live this long, I will just have to take it as it comes, but I have no plans to stop doing what I am doing"

Marilyn Connor, manager of the shop said: "I am so proud of their achievements, Oxfam has hundreds of volunteers but a round of applause for this special group of women is due."

If you want to follow in the footsteps of these ladies and help famine relief then call Marilyn on: 0161 755 3013