Building society staff in Monmouth are encouraging people to donate their unwanted books to help patients at a nearby hospital.

The Monmouth branch of Yorkshire Building Society has become an official collection point for both fiction and non-fiction books for Llanarth Court Hospital in Abergavenny.

David Ridley, manager of the Yorkshire's Monmouth branch, said: "This is a brilliant chance to de-clutter your bookshelves and help others at the same time. Anyone who has stayed in hospital, or who has relatives who have, will know how important it can be to have a distraction or something to help pass the time.

"I hope as many people as possible will be able to join in and help us collect good quality books to pass on to Llanarth Court Hospital."

Trevor Irwin, Hospital Director, at Llanarth Court Hospital said: "Staff and patients at Llanarth Court Hospital really appreciate these kind donations of books for the patient library. Access to a wide range of books is vital for our patients to keep learning and to keep focused on their wellbeing.

"The development of the patient library also enables us to provide Real Work Opportunities for patients who want to manage this service and build employment skills for the future."

The branch is open for donations from 9am to 5pm Mondays to Friday, 9.30am to 5pm on Wednesdays and from 9am until noon on Saturdays. The collection will run until 10th July.