A new charity store has opened its doors in Ashton, with all proceeds benefitting children and adults with complex disabilities.
The area’s first Sense shop opened at 41 Warrington Street on Friday and received a warm welcome from the local community despite the cold and rainy weather.
The shop is selling a range of both new and donated goods, including ladieswear, menswear, books, bric-a-brac and electrical items to raise funds for the national disability charity.
It also aims to be an integral part of the town’s community, by providing a local hub for volunteers and customers to come together to meet people and tackle loneliness.
More than half (53 per cent) of people with complex disabilities told Sense that they often or always feel lonely, in comparison to a quarter (25 per cent) of the general population.
Area manager, Simone Tiano, said: “We’ve had a fantastic opening weekend and I was so pleased to hear all the positive feedback we’ve received so far from the local community.
“We aim to deliver the best service for the people of Ashton Under-Lyne with top-quality items at the best prices.
“We look forward to welcoming donations of goods and we call for anyone who is able to spare few hours a week volunteering to pop into the shop and find out more.”