Tag: Shops

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Our Glossop shop is officially award winning

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.

For more information about the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards and to see all the area winners, visit https://charityretail.org.uk/the-uks-favourite-charity-shop

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The success of our Purchase and Donate shop in Stalybridge

For over 10 years, the Purchase and Donate (PAD) shop in Stalybridge has been a cornerstone of the community, offering a unique shopping experience while raising vital funds for Willow Wood Hospice.

Specialising in children’s toys and clothing, bric-a-brac, and furniture, last year this bustling shop generated around 30 per cent of our shops’ total annual income – which directly supports patients from Tameside and Glossop with life-limiting illnesses in our care.

A team that makes it happen

The PAD is a thriving operation, thanks to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to keep things running smoothly.

Manager Michelle Baxter is proud of the shop’s impact and the commitment of those who support it.

“We are grateful to have a wonderful team who work incredibly hard,” Michelle shares. “We’re lucky to receive fabulous, high-quality donations, and we have a wide range of customers who support us. Knowing that we make a significant contribution to the care of patients at the Hospice makes it all worthwhile.”

Michelle Baxter
Michelle Baxter

 

A treasure trove of items

The PAD shop offers something for everyone. On the ground floor, customers can browse a selection of furniture – including sofas, beds, kitchen tables, coffee tables and mirrors – as well as books, picture frames and even jigsaw puzzles.

The dedicated bric-a-brac section is a treasure trove of unique and quirky finds—perfect for those who love discovering hidden gems.

The bric-a-brac section is a treasure trove waiting for you to discover

Upstairs, the children’s section has seen exciting developments. Since the café closed, Viv Frattaroli and her team have expanded the space to offer even more for families.

“We wanted to make the most of the space and create a welcoming environment for children and their parents,” says Viv. “Now, we have an even wider range of children’s items, from teddies and toys to clothes and prams. It’s fantastic to see families coming in and finding great-quality items at affordable prices.”

Viv Frattaroli
Viv Frattaroli

Pay the PAD a visit

The PAD shop wouldn’t be the success it is without the generosity of donors and customers, and every purchase made directly helps us provide essential care to those who need it most.

If you’re looking for quality pre-loved furniture, you’ll still find a fantastic selection at the PAD.

Some of the furniture available at The PAD

We now a smoother system in place to collect your furniture donations – visit www.willowwood.org.uk/furniture-collection to find out more.

Whether you’re hunting for a bargain, donating items or simply browsing, the PAD shop is a special place where the community comes together to make a difference. Thank you for your continued support!

You will find the PAD at 13/15 Shepley Street (postcode SK15 2AH) and it’s open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm.

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Glossop shop celebrates Vivienne Westwood’s legacy

Our charity shop in Glossop is paying tribute to the iconic fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood with a stunning window display celebrating her incredible legacy.

Vivienne made her mark in the 1970s, bringing punk and new wave fashion into the mainstream with her bold and eccentric designs. We’re honouring her creative spirit with a unique display that reflects her iconic style.

Millie, who has been volunteering in the shop for three years, came up with the idea.

“I’m a massive Vivienne Westwood fan and as we are close to her birthplace, I thought what better way for us to celebrate a true icon for what would have been her birthday,” she said.

Crafted by our talented staff and volunteers, the display was unveiled last Saturday (29th March) and will remain in place until at least Tuesday 8th April, which would have been Vivienne’s 84th birthday.

WATCH: See the window display in a short video, by clicking the play button below…

A connection with Vivienne

Vivienne’s company Vivienne Westwood Limited donated a designer bag to Sara Scott-Rivers, Executive Assistant to our CEO Tracy Minshull – who lives in Tintwistle, where Vivienne grew up.

Sara is a big fan of Vivienne and her brand, as well as her environmentally conscious ethos.

Vivienne received hospice care in south London before she died in December 2022 at the age of 81 and as Sara works at a hospice, it felt like a meaningful connection.

Sara said: “I think Vivienne would approve of the bag helping to raise vital funds for a hospice.”

Describing the piece, Sara added: “It’s small and tartan with a thick heavy chain – very eye-catching. It’s in its dust bag with a little card. I hope it raises a decent amount for Willow Wood and it would be lovely if it finds a home with someone who loves all things Westwood.”

Sara with the bag outside the Hospice

Win a Westwood masterpiece!

That very bag is now part of our Glossop shop display, in photographic form, and is the prize in an exciting raffle.

Tickets can be bought in the shop at 12 High Street West, and at Pixie Bakes Cakery & Coffee Shop in Tintwistle, for £1 each. The raffle will be drawn on Saturday 19th April.  

Even after her move to London, Vivienne never forgot her Peak District roots. Indeed, a striking mural of the designer, created by local artist Deggy, is proudly displayed in Glossop town centre.

So it’s fitting that our boutique-style Glossop shop remembers a local icon who will always be synonymous with fashion.

Caroline Lillis, our Glossop shop manager, said: “We’re excited to celebrate Vivienne Westwood’s incredible legacy with this special window display. I’d like to thank the whole team for their hard work – it looks magnificent.

“As a trailblazing fashion icon with strong local connections, this is a wonderful opportunity to honour her creativity and impact. We hope the display inspires our community and highlights Vivienne’s lasting influence on fashion.”

If you’re in Glossop, make sure to stop by and take a look!

You’ve got to see the display for yourself!

Fashion Show alert!

On the subject of style, don’t miss our next Fashion Show on Friday 9th May at The Lock in Stalybridge. Expect a fabulous night of style, sparkle, and bargains!

For more details and tickets, visit willowwood.org.uk/events/fashion-show

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Customer’s praise for ‘community asset’ Hospice shop

Jackie Price, from Dane Bank in Denton, is a regular and loyal customer of our Reddish Lane shop – where you’ll find her at least twice a week!

She believes the shop is a real asset to the community and could not speak highly enough of our hard-working staff and volunteers.

“I love everything about the shop,” said Jackie. “Louise [the shop manager] and all of the volunteers are amazing.

“I almost forget that I am in a charity shop – there’s a boutique feel about it and a strong sense of community.

“Louise takes great pride in the shop and works hard on her window displays. I have made friends from visiting the shop – from the volunteers to fellow customers too.

“The staff go out of their way to help you – especially if you are looking for a particular thing like a bag or a pair of shoes. I always leave the shop feeling so lifted.”

Shop manager Louise (second from left) and some of her dedicated volunteers

Jackie doesn’t have any personal connections to the Hospice but likes to support Willow Wood by shopping for pre-loved items.

“The shop is so welcoming, everything is colour co-ordinated and it’s just a real joy to visit,” she explained.

“I keep spreading the word to everyone I know about it. You feel like you are supporting a good cause as well as the environment which is important.

“I wanted to give the team at the Reddish Lane shop some well-deserved recognition.”

We need at least £3.3 million every year to continue providing our vital services and we rely on the generosity of our community to raise around 80 per cent of that total – including through supporting our charity shops.

To find your nearest Willow Wood Hospice shop in Tameside and Glossop, visit https://willowwood.org.uk/shop-locations/

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Hospice shops appeal for winter clothing

Willow Wood Hospice’s shops are in desperate need of winter clothing to help keep the community warm during the colder months.

The Hospice’s eight shops across Tameside and Glossop are looking for donations of winter essentials – such as jumpers, shirts, skirts, dresses, trousers, hats, gloves, scarves and coats, which are in good condition.

Donations would be gratefully received by dropping them off at any of the shops during their opening hours.

Find your nearest Willow Wood Hospice shop at https://willowwood.org.uk/shop-locations/

UK taxpayers can also make their donations worth an extra 25 per cent, at no extra cost to them, by filling out a basic form when dropping off donations to sign up to Gift Aid.

Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “Winter is coming and we really need your help to support our local community during one of the toughest times of the year.

“Our shops rely on generous donations to keep the shelves stocked. Any donations of winter clothes will be sold on to be loved again, helping to recycle and reduce waste, but also raise much-needed funds to support patients from your local community who need our expert care at Willow Wood Hospice.

“Thank you so much for your continued support, which really makes a difference.”

The Hospice’s eight shops across Tameside and Glossop are appealing for donations of winter clothes.

Lillie Winterbottom, the Hospice’s Communications and Marketing Manager, has already done her bit by donating her pre-loved clothes after having a clear-out at home.

She said: “I realised I had loads of clothes in my wardrobe and drawers that I’ll never fit into again, and I had to ask myself why on earth I was holding onto them!

“So, I had a proper sort-out and took all the good-quality items down to the Clearance Outlet and Donation Centre in Ashton. From there, they’ll be sent to our shops to be sold.

“It’s a great feeling knowing that the funds raised from my wardrobe clear-out will go directly towards helping care for Willow Wood Hospice patients.”

Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Willow Wood Hospice – based in Ashton-under-Lyne – needs at least £3.3 million every year to continue operating and around 80 per cent of those costs have to be raised through the generosity of the local community.

Anyone who would like to give the gift of their time by volunteering in any of the Hospice shops can express their interest at https://willowwood.org.uk/hospice-volunteering/interest/

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Shop volunteer Stella shows ‘unusual’ find some love

With an eye for quality and a passion for discovering hidden history, our Glossop shop volunteer Stella Quinn knows a thing or two about jewellery. 

During her Friday and Saturday afternoon shifts, Stella meticulously processes donations of bric-a-brac and jewellery, pricing them up and stocking them on the shelves.

She was sorting through one particular bag of costume jewellery donated recently when one item immediately stood out, much to her excitement.

“I just happened to come across an oval locket, it was absolutely stunning,” explained Stella.

“It could have possibly come from a house clearance. I noticed straight away that it was a much older item.

“I know about jewellery and collect some myself. It was just so unusual. The rim was gold metal but not hallmarked.

“It was a miniature of a sailor and his love, with a ship in the background and he’s handing her a bag of money. On the reverse was plaited hair, which was the norm for a love token. It would have been the hair of your best beloved. The couple were in typical Georgian dress in the painting on the front of the locket.

“It was probably earlier than the Victorian age because the style of the dress is Regency and it wasn’t a mourning item because they were almost always black. Victorian jewellery would tend to be black often with plaited hair, based on items worn by Queen Victoria.

“It wouldn’t be something that you could really wear in this day and age, unless you’re dressed for it. But it’s a great item for a collector.”

The love token, around two inches by 1.5 inches in size, is believed to be from circa 1820 to 1840.

The front (left) and back of the locket that was donated to our Glossop shop

Recognising there could be more to the locket than meets the eye, Stella decided to explore online to see if she could get an auctioneer to value it – and her endeavours were worthwhile.

“I discovered Adam Partridge Auctioneers and Valuers, based in Devon, and they were really enthusiastic about it.

“They gave it a basic valuation of between £150 to £200 and also said that they don’t charge charities commission which is really good. They were exceptionally helpful.

“They said anything of that age, like a miniature, would be painted on ivory so we had to get an ivory exemption certificate which for the size of the locket was around £20. They sold it for us and we got £100 for it which was fantastic. I didn’t have a reserve on it, so that was fine.

“It was a real learning curve because I hadn’t taken anything to an auction house before. I certainly would consider it for future donations.”

Stella, who lives in Simmondley, has volunteered in our Glossop shop for around six years.

The former teaching assistant, who worked with students with special educational needs for around 30 years, wanted to support the Hospice after our teams cared for her husband when he was ill.

Stella finds great joy in using her inquisitive mind to really make a difference.

“You never know what you’re going to find when you open a bag of donations and that’s the beauty of it,” she shared.

“In any donation, you can find a piece of silver or occasionally gold. You can’t discount it so you’ve got to look – I always carry a little lens in my pocket, just in case.”

Well done Stella, here’s to unearthing more gems!

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Glossop shop is on the move

Willow Wood Hospice’s charity shop in Glossop will be moving into a much larger home next week. 

The current shop at 57 High Street West has a half-price sale on before it permanently closes at 4pm on Saturday 25th May.   

The new shop is situated across the road at 12 High Street West – which was most recently One Bay and previously Thomas Cook.

It will open to customers for the first time on Wednesday 29th May at 11am – when the High Peak Mayor, Councillor Stewart Gardner, will officially cut the ribbon. On opening day, customers will receive a raffle ticket with every purchase to be in with a chance of winning a food hamper. 

Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “We are always looking to improve our retail offering and we had outgrown our space in Glossop thanks to the fantastic support of the local community. 

“In our new premises, we have an increased floor space and a greater high street presence.

“We wish to express our sincere thanks to local businesses who have supported us in getting the new shop up and running – including Colebarn Developments Ltd in Hadfield.” 

Caroline Lillis, Glossop shop manager, added: “We are really excited to open our new Glossop shop, which is bigger and brighter with an extended range of items. 

“We cannot wait to welcome customers old and new so they can see our brilliant new shop for themselves.”  

The shop will be open seven days a week – from 9.30am to 4.30pm Mondays to Saturdays and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. 

You can contact the shop by calling 0161 669 4855 and keep an eye out on the community noticeboard in the shop for updates about the Hospice, its services and fundraising events. 

Supporting the Hospice’s charity shops is just one way that people can make a difference to patients from the local community. 

Donations of new or used items, dropped off during the shop’s opening hours, are always appreciated to ensure they become the gift that keeps on giving. See which items you can donate at https://willowwood.org.uk/what-can-i-donate/

The Hospice would also be grateful to anyone who can spare a few hours every week to lend a hand in the new shop. No previous retail experience is needed as training will be given. You can express your interest by visiting https://willowwood.org.uk/hospice-volunteering/interest/ 

If you would like to be part of the Hospice’s Retail team, keep an eye out for any new positions when they become available at https://willowwood.org.uk/vacancies/ 

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Ashton shop manager speaks to Tameside Radio

The manager of our Ashton-under-Lyne shop, Denise Royle, has been speaking to Tameside Radio’s Alex Cann about how you can support the Hospice through our shops. 

The interview was first aired on the Breakfast show on Monday 5th February.

If you missed their chat, you can listen below…

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Donate your unwanted belongings to Willow Wood

Willow Wood Hospice is encouraging local residents to start the new year by having a declutter and generously donating any items or gifts they no longer want, need or use.  

Did you get more shirts than you’ll ever wear for Christmas, or perhaps a pair of jeans that isn’t your size or style?

Maybe you’ve got a book you’ve already read sitting on a shelf, or a board game you’ve already played gathering dust in a cupboard?

The Hospice is hoping that people will consider donating these new or used items to ensure they become the gift that keeps on giving.

You can feel a lot better knowing that having a clear-out can make the house feel calmer post-Christmas and the items you donate to Willow Wood’s charity shops will be re-sold to help raise vital funds to support the care of patients from the local community with life-limiting illnesses.

The Hospice has six charity shops across Tameside and Glossop, in addition to the Purchase and Donate (PAD) Furniture Shop in Stalybridge and Distribution Centre in Ashton-under-Lyne.

Willow Wood needs at least £3.3 million every year to continue operating and, with only 20 per cent of that funding coming by way of central government, the Hospice relies on the generosity of the community it serves.

Supporting Willow Wood’s shops is one way you can help and our team of dedicated staff and volunteers will gratefully receive any donations of items during opening hours to keep the shelves stocked – with the exception of duvets, car seats and crash helmets.

Furniture will also be accepted at the Purchase and Donate (PAD) Furniture Shop on Shepley Street in Stalybridge.

See where your nearest Willow Wood Hospice shop is and check the opening hours at www.willowwood.org.uk/shop-locations

People can make their donations worth an extra 25 per cent for the Hospice by signing up to Gift Aid. By filling out a simple form when dropping off your donations, Willow Wood will receive an extra 25p from the government for every £1 raised from donated goods and it won’t cost you a penny.

Pauline Lunt, Head of Retail at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “There’s no better time than the new year to clear space in your wardrobe or from your shelves and cupboards. We would be incredibly grateful if you could donate any belongings you don’t want or need any more to our Willow Wood charity shops and we will find a loving new home for them. You will be helping us to be there for our patients and their families when they need us most.

“By extending the season of goodwill and donating your unwanted items to Willow Wood Hospice, you will also be helping to reduce waste.

“Whilst dropping off your donations, you might even spot something you like and bag yourself a bargain.”