Charity shop shutting after sales slump

The Leighton Road store will close its doors for the last time tomorrow (Saturday) after first opening back in 2011.

The shop, which is one of seven Florence Nightingale Hospice outlets around the region, has struggled with falling sales and increased competition, according to the charity.

The Leighton shop was mainly staffed by local volunteers who sort donations, create displays and serve customers.

“Our volunteers have done a fantastic job and are so incredibly generous with their time and effort,” said shop manager James Barnett.

“We couldn’t have run the shop without them and they have been a great asset to us. We hope they will continue to support the charity in other ways in spite of the shop closing down.

Sue Jenkins, chief executive of the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, said: “It is with great regret that we are closing down the Leighton Buzzard Shop.

“We are immensely grateful to the people of Leighton Buzzard and surrounding areas for the amazing support over the last five years.

“The Leighton Buzzard shop has made a significant contribution to the charity’s income over the years.”

> If you would like to continue to support the Florence Nightingale Hospice by donating goods or purchasing, the nearest Florence Nightingale Hospice Shop is on the High Street in Winslow.