East Cheshire Hospice’s charity shops reopened on Monday (April 12) hoping for a surge in trade to make up for lost revenue.
The tills were ringing at the Thornton Square retail outlet and in the Hospice’s other shops at Handforth and Poynton after lockdown restrictions were eased.
The locations had to close at the start of the year, dealing a further financial blow to the Hospice which relies heavily on trading income to help fund patient care.
The Thornton Square and Handforth sites also faced long closures last year during the initial lockdown, while the charity’s new ECHO shop in Poynton had to delay opening until September.
Commercial manager Louise Delany said: “It’s good to be back open again after such a frustrating time for our customers, staff and volunteers.
“We want to thank everyone for their patience and ongoing support and remind everyone that strict social distancing measures are in place.
“The closures were a big blow to Hospice income, but hopefully we can make up for some of the funds and donations we’ve missed out on.”
The only limit on donations is at Thornton Square where there is a maximum of two bags. Books should be taken to the shop rear for quarantine. CDs, DVDs, toys or soft toys are not accepted at Handforth.
Opening hours are 9.30 am-4.30 pm Mon-Sat. Furniture collection is also available to book here, or call 01625 409647.
An announcement about the former Chestergate shop is expected soon.
Louise Delany, Commercial Manager at East Cheshire Hospice.