WHO'S WHO: Laurie M Bach and Coco Asanuma

Laurie M'Bach and Coco Asanuma are volunteer helpers at the St John's Hospice shop in St John's Wood High Street

What do you like most about working in St John's Wood?

LM: The uniqueness of the area. It has a real sense of

community. The high street is very un-commercialised, most of the shops are independently owned. Plus, you're not

constantly being watched by CCTV camera, as you are in most other parts of London.

What is your favourite local building?

CA: Lord's cricket ground - it's very historical. I love cricket and go there quite a lot to support England.

LM: The hospitals are wonderful - you get a very special service for free. Then there's St. John's Hospice which brings together a group of caring individuals. That's the magic of the place, just one visit really makes you value your life.

What is your favourite local restaurant?

LM: Carluccio's (in St John's Wood High Street) has fantastic food. It's our lunchtime favourite.

What do you do in the area at weekends?

CA: I usually go to the Japanese centre. I like to do healing there.

What's the best thing about living in the area?

LM: Everyone here knows each other and looks out for one another. There's no problem with speaking to people and

making eye contact like in other areas of London. You know your neighbours here and support them, it turns back the wheels of time.

What's the worst thing about living in the area?

LM: The people who steal donated clothes from the front of the shop before it opens in the morning. It happens regularly, but is only a small minority. It costs a lot to live here as well; you pay the price but you also reap the benefits.

Who was the last celebrity you saw here?

CA: Kiki Dee donated last weekend and Paul McCartney was in here recently too.

LM: Madonna is a major contributor to our hospice as well.