Charity shop crowned best in the West in awards

The local charity shop is the first outlet to win the national award

A charity shop has been named as the West's favourite place to find second-hand goods.

One of 6,500 retail units nominated across the UK, the St Peter’s Hospice shop in Westbury Park, Bristol, won in a public vote involving 13,000 people.

The awards were launched in June to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Charity Retail Association, the membership organisation for charity shops in the UK.

Shop manager Harriet Wheadon said she hopes the new title will attract more customers to raise money for "our much-loved local hospice".

St Peter’s Hospice is a local charity caring for adults with incurable illnesses in the Bristol, South Gloucestershire, and North Somerset areas.

According to the charity, about 17% of its income comes from its small chain of shops.

John Broomhead, hospice retail director, said: “Our charity retail offering really is second to none, and to be recognised by a body like the Charity Retail Association is a testament to that.

“Shoppers are becoming both increasingly cost-conscious and sustainability-conscious, so our shops, providing high quality pre-loved items at affordable prices, tick those boxes while also raising money for hospice care.

“We’re incredibly proud of our shops across Bristol and we couldn’t do it without the generosity of those who donate and those who shop, so thank you.”

Robin Osterley, CEO of the Charity Retail Association, will visit the Westbury Park shop on 24 October to present the award.