Our sixth Fashion Show was a night to remember, bringing together glamour, generosity and community spirit.
Held once again at The Lock on Castle Street in Stalybridge, the stylish venue welcomed over 140 people last Friday (7th November).
The evening sparkled from start to finish, raising a fantastic £4,000 in support of patient care at the Hospice.
Guests enjoyed a glass of fizz on arrival before settling in to watch the runway show, featuring our fabulous volunteer models showcasing winter collections.
After the show, the downstairs was transformed into a boutique-style pop-up shop, full of stylish clothes, shoes and accessories – all at a fraction of retail prices.
There was hot and cold food, plus a wide range of drinks from the bar, to keep everyone refreshed throughout the evening.
Guests could also enter a raffle, with some fantastic prizes on offer.
Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “We’re so grateful to everyone who came along and made it another fantastic night.
“A huge thank you goes to Wendy and all of the team at The Lock for their incredible support and kind donation; to the students from Tameside College for all of their help; to our wonderful models; and to our amazing retail teams whom we couldn’t do it without.
“Our six Fashion Shows combined have raised £20,000, which has really made a difference to patients with a life-limiting illness in our care.”
Our Fashion Show will return next year – keep your eyes peeled for more details!
We’d like to shine a spotlight on one of our wonderful volunteers – Rita Evans, from Hyde, who has received her badge for volunteering for an incredible 10 years at our Waterloo shop in Ashton-under-Lyne.
Rita, who is 79 years old, has brought kindness, laughter and friendship to everyone she meets.
She first joined the shop after moving to the area – she could see it from her flat window and thought volunteering there would be a lovely way to support Willow Wood, meet people and make new friends.
And that’s exactly what she did! As shop manager Kellie Moulton says: “Rita has made the most amazing friends whilst volunteering at our shop, enjoying nights out and holidays with them for which she’s forever grateful. She’s loved all the laughs and chats with our fantastic customers, and every minute of her time helping and supporting the Hospice as it’s such a special place.”
Recently, Rita has been undergoing treatment for lung cancer, but her positivity and dedication to supporting Willow Wood have never wavered.
Rita raised a fantastic £924.42 towards patient care at the Hospice.
In fact, she decided to turn a difficult moment into something inspiring. After being told her hair would fall out during chemotherapy, Rita chose to have her head shaved in the shop – surrounded by her friends, family, and loyal customers – to raise funds for the Hospice she loves so dearly.
One Saturday afternoon in October, Kellie took up the clippers and carried out the head shave. It was an emotional moment, but one filled with warmth, laughter and pride as Rita raised a fantastic £924.42 towards patient care at the Hospice.
“When Rita joined us, she quickly became my sidekick,” Kellie added. “She came in most days at the start and learned sorting, pricing and till work but then soon learned how to open up and close the shop, cashing up and banking, so she was able to cover my days off and my holidays.
“Without Rita by my side, I would have been lost some days. She has a heart of gold and is always willing to help no matter what. She has played a massive part in the shop from supporting me and other volunteers.”
Rita says she felt emotional but happy to do something good out of a horrible situation. She’s loved her role in the shop but, more than anything, she treasures the wonderful friendships she’s made along the way.
Thank you, Rita, for everything you’ve done and continue to do for Willow Wood Hospice.
Willow Wood Hospice is celebrating after its Glossop charity shop was crowned the East Midlands winner in the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards 2025.
The much-loved shop on High Street West was one of over 5,000 charity shops nominated from across the UK and rose to the top following a public vote of more than 40,000 people.
It is one of just 12 winners nationwide, representing each of the nine English regions, plus Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Adding to the Hospice’s success, Willow Wood’s shop in Hyde was also shortlisted in the highly competitive North West category.
The awards organised by the Charity Retail Association, now in their second year, celebrate the very best of charity retail – shops that not only raise vital funds through the sale of pre-loved goods but also serve as community hubs, providing employment, volunteering opportunities, and support for local people.
Customers of the Glossop shop echoed this sentiment in their nominations.
One supporter commented: “This charity shop is so well presented, colour co-ordinated and the staff are so lovely. They are very reasonably priced, making it accessible to all – I go in four times a week. Everything is priced very reasonably; range of stock is really good. The staff are amazing; they can never do enough for you.”
Some of the Willow Wood Glossop shop’s hard-working volunteers celebrating with the award.
The award was presented to the shop’s team on Thursday 30th October by Emma Peake, Chair of the Charity Retail Association, who spoke with the dedicated staff and volunteers behind the shop’s success.
Caroline Lillis, manager of the Hospice’s Glossop shop, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been named East Midlands winner – it means so much to our whole team. Every day, our volunteers bring warmth and passion to what they do, and our customers are like family to us. This award is for the community of Glossop who support us so loyally – we couldn’t do it without them.”
Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, added: “A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to vote, share, and spread the word among family and friends. Your support truly makes a difference and these awards recognise the outstanding work our retail team does every day to support patient care at the Hospice.”
Robin Osterley OBE, Chief Executive of the Charity Retail Association, commented: “Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who voted. The volume of support the Awards received this year not only demonstrates the public’s passion for their favourite stores but really shows the impact they have within their local communities and the difference they make to people’s lives.”
The overall UK winner will be announced in November.
What a year it has been! Just twelve months ago, our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre opened its doors, transforming a warehouse into a vibrant retail hub – not just a place to donate and shop, but a place with heart.
From our Opening Day on 12th October to the launch of our branded vans and improved collection and delivery service, every milestone has helped the team grow stronger together.
Highlights included a Family Fun Day, filled with laughter and music, and the unveiling of our community garden – now a welcoming green space for everyone.
Behind the scenes, success has been powered by our staff and volunteers, including young people from the Tameside YES scheme. We’ve also welcomed many new faces – individuals and corporate volunteers – whose energy and commitment have made a huge difference.
“We’ve all learned so much this past year – and we’re still learning every day,” said Paul King, Warehouse and Logistics Manager. “Shopping or donating here isn’t like your typical charity shop. There’s always something happening, plenty of space to browse, and a real buzz thanks to our customers, staff, and volunteers.”
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who has donated, shopped, or supported this multi-faceted retail hub. You’ve helped make this outlet truly special.
Here’s to another year of growth, community, and making a difference TOGETHER.
Artist Emma Evans has been brightening Hyde’s high street with vibrant shopfront murals in partnership with Tameside Council.
Her latest project transformed the window of our Market Place shop, framing it with Willow Wood Hospice’s familiar trees in a colourful, welcoming design.
The artwork has sparked conversations among shoppers, volunteers, and passers-by, raising awareness of the Hospice’s vital work.
Emma said: “It was such an honour to create the window artwork for Willow Wood. The team are incredibly friendly and the work they do is truly inspiring. The words they chose flow beautifully with the values of the wider Hyde project.”
Gemma Wharmby, manager of our Hyde shop, commented: “I think it really brightens up the window and fits in with our logo perfectly. Emma was lovely and is a regular visitor to our shop so it was really nice to see her work.
“We have had lots of customer feedback saying it looks lovely and bright and really grabs your attention. Lots of customers have asked about the reason behind it and said she’s done a fab job.”
Thank you to Emma and Tameside Council for combining creativity with community pride.
Our Hyde shop manager Gemma next to the finished shop window
If you’re thinking of giving back and making a difference in your community, this is the perfect opportunity to come along and find out more about volunteering with Willow Wood Hospice.
Our Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre on Langham Street (off Oldham Road) in Ashton-under-Lyne is holding a Volunteer Recruitment Day on Saturday 9th August from 10am to 2pm.
There are a range of flexible roles available – from helping with eBay and sorting through donations to being a Retail Assistant or a Driver’s Mate. You’ll get a glimpse of what’s involved in the video below…
What to expect on the day:
• Tours of the premises every hour on the hour
• Meet our friendly team in a relaxed environment
• Say hello to our mascot Woody!
• Enter our raffle to win a hamper worth over £50
Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, meet new people, or simply want to support a local cause, we’d love to see you there.
In early 2024, our Retail and Volunteering teams embraced a promising new opportunity to support local young people in collaboration with Tameside Council.
The Youth Employment Support (YES) scheme is aimed at helping 16 to 24-year-olds into the world of work, encouraging local organisations to offer at least six months of paid employment.
The scheme provides funding to make it easier for employers to give young people an opportunity.
Last year, we welcomed our first participant, Declan Ranahan, through the scheme—and he quickly made his mark. Declan has since progressed into a full-time role, balancing his Driver’s Mate position with an apprenticeship supported by Clarendon Sixth Form College.
Declan (pictured at the front) has established himself as part of our Retail team
His success has paved the way for others. Since Declan’s start, five more young people have joined our Retail team through the scheme, working at the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne and our Purchase and Donate Shop in Stalybridge.
Each of them has brought enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a fresh perspective.
Paul King, our Warehouse and Logistics Manager, has been mentoring some of the young people and has witnessed their progress firsthand.
“It has worked really well for us,” he said. “The young people get a lot out of it because they are treated like staff. We support them as much as we can and they are given responsibility. The majority of them do want to stay on at the end of the six months.
“Declan has been an example to others – he’s come a long way in the time he’s been with us and really enjoys his Driver’s Mate role.
“The young people with us have been supporting our van drivers and sorting out stock and serving customers in the Clearance Outlet downstairs. They have been quick learners, have had a positive attitude and have been a massive help.”
For Libby Marshall, 18, from Dukinfield, the role has been eye-opening and empowering.
Libby has been working in our Clearance Outlet
“I wasn’t doing anything so I was looking for a job and this came up. It’s been really nice – the friendly environment and the people I’m working with. I didn’t really know anything about the Hospice before so I’ve learned a lot about it.
“I’ve learned communication skills and just being more confident because before I wasn’t really good at communicating.”
Kaylum Duggan, 19, from Stalybridge, has taken on a Driver’s Mate role since January 2025.
Kaylum is enjoying being a Driver’s Mate
“It’s a nice working environment and very cooperative. I’ve learned to work in a team, being prepared and lots of physical skills like manual handling. I feel like I’ve had a good impact and I’m enjoying it.
“I would definitely recommend the YES scheme to others – it helps you get out of your shell and find opportunities that help you grow as a person.”
Emily Kellett, 23, from Dukinfield, brought with her some previous volunteering experience, but says her time at Willow Wood has taken her skills and confidence to new levels.
“I’ve developed skills like customer service, money management and teamwork. It’s been lovely working with Libby and all of the team – I feel like I fitted in from day one and I’ve made some great friendships. I want to stay working in retail.”
For many of these young people, previous alternative education placements or work environments had not been the right fit. But at Willow Wood, they have found encouragement, responsibility, and a welcoming team.
Neil Radford, who is involved in the YES scheme at Tameside Council, has praised the collaboration.
“Some of our cohort have challenges and have struggled with social anxiety, particularly around peers of their own age,” Neil said.
“Since working at Willow Wood, we’ve seen their confidence and self-esteem grow and have encouraged increased social interactions across different age groups and some will now travel on public transport independently. They are also broadening their social activities by attending gyms, watching films at the cinema and going shopping with peers.
“Additionally, they have gained valuable experience in learning about the world of work and the responsibilities of being an employee. Through their time at Willow Wood, they have developed essential skills such as teamwork, time management, and workplace communication, which have further boosted their independence skills.
“We would especially like to thank Paul King and his team at the Clearance Outlet and Lisa Pye for their support, patience and kindness. Without this, our scheme wouldn’t be the success it is today.”
Anyone interested in taking part in the YES scheme can contact the Employment and Skills team at Tameside Council on 0161 342 3111 or email employmentandskills@tameside.gov.uk
We’ve loved working with Guide Bridge Theatre on their recent production of The Odd Couple.
Our Retail team has been speaking with Vicky from the theatre’s volunteer coordinators team since November to help supply props for their performances – including a table, chairs, and a glass cabinet pictured from the latest show.
By renting selected items from our shops at a much-lower cost than specialist prop hire companies, the Audenshaw theatre saves money and storage space, as well as accessing unique, period-appropriate pieces.
Once the show ends, we simply collect the items and return them to our shops, ready to be sold.
It’s a collaborative way to support a brilliant local theatre, promote sustainability, and raise vital funds for the Hospice.
We’re looking forward to seeing this little project develop!
“This partnership is a win-win,” Vicky said. “We often need unique items to help bring our stories to life on stage — from vintage armchairs to quirky lamps. Being able to source these from Willow Wood Hospice means we can do so affordably, while also contributing to an incredibly worthwhile cause.”
Paul King, our Warehouse and Logistics Manager, added: “We’re thrilled to be working with Guide Bridge Theatre. It’s wonderful to see our donated goods taking on a second life on stage, helping to tell meaningful stories and entertain local audiences, all while raising funds for hospice care. It’s a beautiful example of community collaboration in action.”
The next Guide Bridge Theatre production is Agatha Christie’s A Murder Is Announced, which opens on Monday, July 28, and organisers hint that several pieces sourced through the new initiative will feature prominently.
Pictured is a scene from The Odd Couple production and our furniture collection van parked outside the theatre.
The cafeteria at Clarendon Sixth Form College was recently transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and compassion, as first-year Level 3 Fashion and Textiles students hosted their very own Fashion Show and Sample Sale — all in support of Willow Wood Hospice.
From concept to catwalk, the entire event was organised, styled and modelled by the talented students themselves. Their passion and professionalism shone through every outfit and every detail.
Held on Friday 6th June, the event was open to all students and staff at the college based in Ashton-under-Lyne town centre.
The afternoon concluded with a PrettyLittleThing sample sale featuring one-of-a-kind pieces — raising over £575 in just one hour!
Our Head of Retail Pauline Lunt, Director of Fundraising and Communications Sam Duncan, Glossop shop manager Caroline Lillis, and Stalybridge shop manager Julie Wilson were all proud to attend and show their support.
Pauline said: “It was absolutely fantastic to see the creativity and energy the students brought to the event. The amount they raised in such a short time is truly impressive, and we’re so grateful for their support. A huge thank you to all the students and staff for choosing to support patient care at Willow Wood – we’re incredibly touched.”
The students had such a fantastic time that they’re already thinking about doing it again — so watch this space for more fashion and fundraising in the future!
Olivia Kitchen, fashion and textiles student at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “The event was amazing and it was great to raise so much money. I found the event gave me an insight into the industry and how fast paced it can be. It was a thrill to be modelling and working backstage and it helped me to realise this is the side of the industry I would like to go into. Considering we only had a few days to plan this event between us, I feel like we pulled it off fabulously. This project has tested our time management skills and allowed us to work as a group.”
Ryan Boulton, fashion and textiles teacher at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the students for what they achieved with this project. They took full ownership of the task and their creativity, professionalism and teamwork really shone through. Not only did they raise a fantastic amount for a brilliant local cause, which many people in Tameside feel a connection to, but they also gained real world experience that will benefit them hugely as they move forward in their careers.”
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