Age Concern East Cheshire’s new centre in Knutsford is celebrating its first year anniversary.

The ground floor charity shop has proved to be very popular with shoppers, with very successful trading figures supporting the work of the local charity. The spacious “department store” layout means that shoppers are able to browse excellent quality bric-a-brac and curios as well as clothes, jewellery and good value books, CDs and DVDs. Unlike some charity shops, electrical goods can also be accepted, as staff are qualified to test them for safety before selling on.

The shop’s King Street location is an ideal central recycling drop-off point for all those surplus items that get in the way of a good spring clean around this time of year.  Upstairs, computer sessions are provided to help people make the most of new technology, and an information and advice service is also available providing free, confidential support people with any difficulties they may help.

Success comes at a price however, and the charity is seeking extra volunteers to help out in the shop. Volunteers can work ‘”front of house” or help out preparing stock. No experience is necessary as full training will be given and volunteers can choose which day of the week suits them best.

Age Concern East Cheshire’s Chief Executive, Madelyn Bridge, says: “I’m delighted that the people of Knutsford are supporting our work by using the new charity shop. It means we can forge ahead with our plans to bring activities and services aimed at older people to the Town sooner than we expected.  Our existing volunteers are doing a great job, providing a welcoming environment for customers to pick up a real bargain. However, having more volunteers to help would mean we could process more stock and as any retailer will tell you – success is all about product.”

As a local independent charity, Age Concern East Cheshire’s decision to open a shop in these uncertain times was a huge undertaking. With no government funding to rely on and monetary donations from businesses and the public in sharp decline due to the recession, the charity was left with little option other than to secure their funding by other means. The success of the shop will ensure that the people of East Cheshire are not left unsupported in later life.

To bring services like information and advice, computer learning, gentle exercise and social groups to older people in Knutsford the Charity says we only need to do three things: Volunteer, Donate and Shop. The triumph of the first year of trading suggests that the people of Knutsford are certainly doing the latter.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities at Age Concern East Cheshire visit the website at www.ageconcerneastcheshire.org.uk or call 01625 612958.

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