Kreate: Sheffield charity shop busier than ever after 'vile' letter sent

The anonymous letter arrived at the shop on Saturday 4 May

A charity shop that was targeted by a "vile" letter wishing it would close down has been "busier than ever", a manager has said.

Kreate, a homeware store in Sheffield, was set up to provide work experience for adults with learning difficulties.

Hundreds of people pledged support for the store after a post about the letter went viral earlier this month.

People from across South Yorkshire had since visited the store, manager Glynis Philliskirk said.

"We certainly have been busier which is fantastic," Ms Philliskirk told the BBC.

"We have had a tremendous week since we received the very sad letter. The outpouring of welcome and love has been incredible."

• 'Vile' letter triggers global support for charity

The error-strewn letter, claiming to be from people in the neighbourhood, stated the shop was not welcome in the area.

"A lot of buisnesses [sic] needed by comunitys [sic] have failed and I hope yours does too," it said.

However, when a copy of the letter was posted online on 4 May it had the opposite effect with people from across the country saying they would pay it a visit.

Many had kept to their word and bought from the shop, Ms Philliskirk said.

'Brought the community together'

Part of the charity Work Ltd, Kreate - in Hutcliffe Wood Road in Beauchief, offers supported retail experience for people with learning difficulties, teaching them how to carry out jobs such as using a till, stocking shelves and packaging sold items.

The store began trading in November, with students set to begin training later this month.

Members of a nearby church had written their own letter of support to the shop staff, saying they "hoped and prayed that your business continues to grow and that it blesses the local community".

Another local business had dropped off fairy cakes to welcome them to the neighbourhood.

"This awful letter has brought the community together in an incredible way, we could not have had a better introduction," Ms Philliskirk added.