Among the recent ‘lockdown easing’ activity on Ruddington High Street you may have noticed the complete clearout of the Nottinghamshire Hospice Charity Shop at Number 10.
The now (almost) empty unit has led to speculation that the popular village retailer is a victim of the Government’s restrictions due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic. On March 23rd new emergency rules forced all non essential businesses – including our three village charity shops – to cease trading until further notice. However, RUDDINGTON.info is pleased to reveal that the sudden disappearance of stock is for another reason…
Manager, Colette Priest, explains: “The shop has recently had part of the floor up due to some drain work. Due to smells and debris it was deemed safer to clear the shop floor. We can now get some other work done in the shop ready for re-merchandising and a long a waited opening! Although we don’t know when this will be, it will be in line with Government recommendations.”
The impromptu refurbishment will include a new shop layout which accommodates likely future ‘social distancing’ requirements: “Staff and customers welfare are paramount and we will open only when we can assure that. Meantime Nottinghamshire Hospice is still continuing to do an amazing job, helping and caring for terminally people in their homes – even with much reduced revenue” says Colette.
There are a few ways you can continue to support this vital local charity whilst the shop is closed, including their eBay Shop, weekly Your Hospice Lottery or simply a direct donation to their Forget Us Not appeal.
Colette adds: “I really miss my volunteers (who are thankfully all well) and the customers and other traders. Hopefully we’ll be back to a ‘new normal’ soon!”
Below is a reminder of what the attractively stocked Ruddington Nottinghamshire Hospice Charity Shop looked like prior to the March closure.
UPDATE 25th JUNE 2020:
Following the refurbishment of the premises prior to re-opening – including new studded walls, a new ceiling, a new counter, changing room and decoration throughout – the High Street deluge of June 17th has now delayed Nottinghamshire Hospice’s shop relaunch plans.
Unfortunately floods caused by the heavy rain affected the entire premises, with water getting in under the door and via drains at the back, causing damage to the shop, office and toilet areas. It will now need new flooring, new skirting boards and complete redecoration. The repair bill is estimated at £3,000.
Penny Cooper, Head of Retail at Nottinghamshire Hospice, says: “We put a lot of work and energy into refitting the shop during lockdown so it’s disappointing that we now have to re-do some of that work and can’t open just yet.”
She adds: “The Ruddington shop is well supported by the local community with a lot of loyal customers, so we’re looking forward to welcoming them back. We hope to be open by August.”
