Charity shop in Northampton to close after eight years due to effect of the pandemic

A local charity has announced the permanent closure of one of its Northampton shops after a ‘tough’ few years.

Cynthia Spencer will not reopen its branch in Leonard’s Road, Far Cotton due to the effect the pandemic and general trading condition have had on business.

With social distancing measures in place, staff say it would be ‘impossible’ to continue trading, but have thanked loyal colleagues and customers.

Retail manager, Charlotte Jones, said: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of the Cynthia Spencer Charity shop on St Leonards Road.

“This charity shop, which opened eight years ago, was a hub for the community but tough trading conditions over the last few years combined with the Covid-19 pandemic and social distancing rules have made it impossible to continue trading.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in this charity shop for their support. “Our staff, volunteers and customers are what made the shop so fantastic and we’d like to thank every single one of you, and special thanks must also go to Trudi Mobley, our wonderful shop supervisor who helped make the shop the great space it was.”

The charity’s town centre shop in the Market Walk Shopping Centre has reopened following closure forced by the pandemic and operates new opening times of Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

A donation station shop at Pondwood Close in Moulton Park is also open Monday to Friday from 9am until 4pm and is accepting donations, which can be dropped off on an appointment basis.

Charlotte added: “We’re lucky to have had such great support from our loyal customers and donors over the years.

“These times have been incredibly difficult for everyone and it’s wonderful to see so many people remembering the hospice by making appointments to bring in donations for us to sell on eBay and in our shops.”

To make a donation appointment call 01604 973349 and visit the charity’s website to find out more about how you can help.

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