MORE than 300 shoppers made purchases on the opening day of Harwich's relocated Barnardo’s.
Children’s charity Barnardo’s relocated from the Dovercourt High Street to new premises on Harwich Gateway Retail Park last Friday, less than a mile away but a move which means double the amount so space.
There were queues to see the opening of the store, with about 100 people filling the store in the first twenty minutes.
Overall, more than 300 shoppers made purchases on opening day, with the Barnardo's Dovercourt retail team serving the same number of people again on Saturday.
The new store will raise money for children in the surrounding area who are supported by Barnardo’s.
Donations of good-quality pre-loved clothing, books, DVDs, toys, games, accessories, and homeware will continue are all now being welcomed at the new premises.
The Barnardo’s store is run by store manager Deonne Newson, with her sister Maria Newson being a sales associate, while their mum Eve Newson managed the store nine years ago.
The longest-running volunteer at the store is Louisa Smith, who has been supporting the charity for 15 years.
The longest-serving sales associates is Dean Sutcliffe who has been in Barnardo’s for 12 years after starting as a volunteer.
The charity is also keen for support from Harwich and Dovercourt residents who can spare a few hours a week to volunteer – from sorting stock to serving customers.
Deonne said: “Volunteering provides valuable experience for those seeking employment, as well as a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends”.
“We hope the people of Dovercourt will help us to give children a brighter future as we continue to be an important part of the local community.”
Barnardo’s in the last year have provided essential support to 373,200 children, young people, parents and carers through more than 800 services and partnerships across the UK.
More than 28 volunteers now support the new store, and the team has received six new volunteer applications since moving.
To find out more visit www.barnardos.org.uk
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