Imperial Charity’s new shop in the High Street, Westbury is just about to complete its first 3 months trading.
“We’ve greatly exceeded our expectations and the staff and volunteers are thrilled at how successful we’ve been,” said the manager Eileen Summerfield.
“But the team here is very keen to point out that our success has been down to the overwhelming generosity of own donors which has allowed us to keep the shop fully stocked and to rotate the goods on a regular basis.
“It is also very encouraging and gratifying to hear all the compliments about the shop which really have gone down well with us all here. It hasn’t taken very long for the window dressing which is changed to a different theme every week, to create an interest to see what is coming next.
“Our window dresser in chief, Wendi Meeuwissen puts her vivid imagination to good use to create some wonderful displays and has come up with themes such as fashion week, the garden, bridal outfits and books and reading to mention just a few.
“Everyone connected with the charity gains great satisfaction from the fact that all funds raised through their hard work are retained and used in the local community and throughout Wiltshire for the benefit of senior citizens and people of all ages with special needs.
“One of the current activities is of course the monthly coach trips which are proving to be so popular it is difficult to keep up with demand. Tickets are selling out on the day they are released and for the first time the charity is having to lay on a third coach to cope with the demand for the next trip to Torquay.
“The charity’s shops on Warminster Road which now concentrate on all items of household furniture and white goods continue to go from strength to strength and are able to provide affordable furniture to all age groups.
“The continued success of the shops means we are always seeking donations and can never get enough.
“A collection service is offered to collect donations, no matter how small and all shops have convenient parking should you wish to donate directly to the shops.”
If anyone wishes to arrange a collection they are asked to ring 01373 826826 which is the Warminster Road furniture shops or 822207 which is the High Street shop.
“All contributions are gratefully received,” added Eileen. “Staff and volunteers would like to pass on a big thank you to everyone who has been so kind and generous with their donations.”
