There was cause for celebration in Market Drayton when we opened our first shop in the town.
We threw open the doors of our new community shop on Cheshire Street on Thursday (March 7).
And we’re banking on it being a huge success – we have moved into the former home of the town’s branch of Barclays Bank.
Having undergone a three-month renovation project the shop, our 32nd, is now the largest high street shop in our portfolio.
The opening has created two permanent jobs, while an army of volunteers also give their free time sorting, steaming and folding tonnes of donated items.
Cutting the ribbon was Sir Algernon Heber-Percy, our president and he was joined by his wife Lady Jane and healthcare assistants Julie Lord and Gail Wilkins.
Amazing
Carla Siswick, head of retail said: “It was amazing to open our 32nd shop and we are so excited this is in Market Drayton.
“We had wanted to open a shop in the town for quite some time but hadn’t been able to find the right spot. But the former bank is just perfect. We have big, floor-to-ceiling windows which show off everything we have on sale.
“The shop is so welcoming, it’s light and bright and we have managed to find a home for Market Drayton’s most famous character, the Gingerbread Man.
“Thanks to Billingtons for supplying us with gingerbread for opening day and we look forward to building on our relationship with them.”
Welcome
Community shop manager Nicola McMaid added: “Since we began the renovation work, we have been made so welcome.
“People have been stopping by to have a chat and see what has been going on and they have all been so interested.
“Severn Hospice is well-loved, we already have an amazing support group in Market Drayton, and they have been incredible over the years. Several members of the group now volunteer in the shop, which is just brilliant.
“But if anyone else can volunteer a few hours, then please get in touch. We would love to hear from them and welcome them to our team.”
Vital
Carla added: “Our shops are so important to us, not only do they bring in more than £1.5 million for us, but they also form a vital link with the community. We are so proud that people support us whether they shop with us or donate, and we can’t thank them enough.”
To find more about volunteering go to https://www.severnhospice.org.uk/join-us/volunteer/
