Longton Boutique Celebration Day

A Celebration Day was held at the newest St Catherine’s shop on Friday – the Longton Ladies’ Boutique at Franklands.

South Ribble MP Seema Kennedy officially opened the store, accompanied by the charity’s Chair of Trustees, Cliff Hughes, and the wonderful team of retail volunteers.

Seema said: “Charity shops are a really great part of a good high street retail mix. And they’re not only a money-making venture – they are very important community hubs staffed by volunteers.

“Volunteering in retail is a fantastic way for people to learn on the job and gain new skills and retail experience, as well as meet new people, which plays an important role in my campaigning to address the issues of loneliness.”

She added: “I know how important St Catherine’s is to the local community; it does fantastic work with patients and all their families, and the shops are a really vital part of that work.

“The new Longton boutique is amazing with lots of tempting stock! And the volunteers are lovely. I was delighted to officially open it.”

Rachel Hewitt, head of trading at St Catherine’s, said: “Our newest venture in Longton takes the number of our shops up to 16, so it’s a very exciting time for the charity as we’re able to reach out to more supporters across South Ribble, Preston and Chorley through our retail offerings.

“As well as general charity shops across the area and our two specialist ladies’ boutiques in Longton and Penwortham, we also have dedicated book and furniture stores, as well as a fabulous bridal boutique which is located in our Lune Street shop in Preston city centre.

“There are some really great, high-quality bargains to be found, and all proceeds go towards funding the vital work of St Catherine’s Hospice in caring for people with life-shortening illnesses, and offering long-term emotional support to their loved ones.”

The Longton Boutique is open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday. To find your nearest shop, please click here.

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