ROWCROFT Hospice is re-opening its Newton Abbot charity shop tomorrow.

Having been forced to close during the Covid pandemic, the Courtenay Street store is to open its doors again to the public, offering a mix of predominantly pre-loved quality items complemented by a small selection of new goods.

All profits raised from the sales will go to fund vital care for patients living with life-limiting illnesses across South Devon.

Rowcroft’s head of retail Caroline Wannell said: ‘Back in 2020, we took the very tough decision to withdraw from the retail property, largely due to the difficulties of trading during the pandemic.

‘However, following the success of our recent Christmas pop-up shop and with shoppers now gaining new confidence in returning to the high street, we believe that the time is right to return permanently to Courtenay Street.

‘With our new manager Sharon Gale in post, we’re optimistic for the months ahead and we’re very much looking forward to getting back to the job of generating much-needed income for the hospice.

‘During this time of financial challenge where wages are failing to keep up with the rising cost of living, people’s budgets are being squeezed from all directions.

‘Within this harsh economic climate, Rowcroft’s shops across South Devon are meeting two vital community needs: offering good quality items at affordable prices; and funding the specialist care and support that Rowcroft provides to local patients and families who are facing the hardest of times.’

‘We know that nothing quite beats the in-store shopping experience - our customers love browsing the rails, never knowing what wonderful items they mind find as our stock changes so regularly.

‘And they really enjoy the warm and friendly customer experience, and chatting with our amazing managers and volunteers.

‘It’s lovely to see our customers’ delight in finding unique sustainable items at affordable prices.

‘We’re so grateful to all the generous people who donate and buy goods. It’s not just about the products - their kindness is essentially paying for the end-of-life care that Rowcroft Hospice delivers to its patients across South Devon.’