14th November 2019
Blidworth shop opening a huge success
Around 300 people attended the opening of Nottinghamshire Hospice’s Community Shop in Blidworth on Saturday, as members of the community turned out to browse the stock, meet the staff and show support for the hospice.
The new shop, which specialises in high quality clothing, accessories and homeware, took more than £1,000 during the first six hours of opening.
Penny Cooper, Head of Retail at Nottinghamshire Hospice, said: “I was very proud to open the new shop on Saturday. It was fantastic to see such a good turnout.
“There was a lot of interest from people in the local community while we were doing the refit and their support and feedback on the day was amazing. The takings on our first day were fabulous and I’m confident that the shop will continue to do well and become a hub of the local community.”
Among visitors to the opening event was Councillor Rob Crowe, Chairman of Newark and Sherwood District Council, who attended in his official capacity with his wife, Councillor Mrs Rita Crowe.
Councillor Crowe said: “It was a pleasure to attend the opening of the new Community Shop for the Nottinghamshire Hospice. These shops are vital to help raise necessary funds to ensure the hospice services can continue and help raise their profile.
“I was impressed with the layout of the shop and the overall atmosphere and wish them every success”.
Marie Overton, manager of the shop, (pictured right) who comes from Blidworth herself, said: “The support on Saturday was amazing. They were queuing outside waiting for the shop to open. People in the local community have been really welcoming and already we’re receiving donations and offers of help.”
As well as selling stock, the shop also serves teas, coffees and cakes to visitors, which Marie says are proving popular and creating a friendly atmosphere.
She hopes to set up some themed coffee mornings after Christmas so people in the area can learn more about the work of the hospice.
The Blidworth shop brings the total number of Nottinghamshire Hospice across the city and county to ten. The shops bring in more than £1 million in income each year to help fund our services.