A grand day as rebranded Melton charity shop reopens

The Dove Cottage Hospice store, on Windsor Street, has traditionally sold bric-a-brac.

But during the coronavirus lockdown, organisers decided to convert it into a children’s shop, selling toys, clothes, books, DVDs, maternity wear and baby gear.

It was felt that a children’s shop would complement the town’s other retail units.

Two new part-time posts were created at the store, for a manager and assistant manager, and there are also opportunities for volunteers to help staff the outlet.

Over the past few weeks, the unit has been transformed with a window painting by a local artist, new furniture and donations from generous residents.

Local businesses: How Sweet, Cards in the Mall, Melton Toys, Harby Garage and Browsers Tea Room have also supported the re-launch.

Di Featherstone, Leah Griffiths and Anna Featherstone were the shop’s first customers.

Di said: “It looks fantastic. What a marvellous selection. We are definitely coming back.”

Chris Gatfield, Dove’s chief executive, said: “We are very excited to open our first dedicated children’s shop, and we hope it is a welcome addition to Melton for young families.

“Thank you to everyone who supported us on our first day and we look forward to seeing them again soon.”

The hospice also has other shops at Stathern, Asfordby, Bottesford and Cotgrave.

Anyone who wants to donate good quality children’s clothes and toys to the Melton shop can call the team on 01664 481925.

The charity also hosted childrens’ activities at Melton street market, including glitter tattoos, a Teddy tombola and a raffle to win Melissa the giraffe.

The shop mascot proved to be a popular sight around the town.

Dove Cottage Day Hospice, based in Canal Lane, Stathern, is planning to reopen its day care services to guests on June 1, and is welcoming new referrals from people living with life-limiting illnesses, frailty and those who are suffering from loneliness through isolation.

All services at the hospice are provided free of charge and the charity needs to raise around £400,000 a year to support them. Go to www.dovecottage.org for details.