A Wiltshire charity shop has closed its doors for the final time amidst rising running costs and falling footfall.
The Julia’s House store on Chippenham High Street shut permanently at 3pm on Wednesday, July 31, following a closing down sale.
The decision to close the store was taken earlier this year and the town centre unit has since been put on the market.
Mike Bartlett, deputy chief executive for the children’s hospice, revealed the “difficult decision” had been taken due to the cost of running the branch combined with a drop in customers.
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He said: “It was with sadness that we took the difficult decision to permanently close the doors to our Julia’s House Chippenham shop this year.
“We’ve loved being part of the Chippenham High Street since 2021.
“But unfortunately, due to rising running costs and declining customer numbers, we can no longer afford to stay open at this location.”
Mr Bartlett paid tribute to the staff and volunteers who kept the shop running over the last three years.
He added: “We want to say a huge thank you to the shop manager, Donna, and our lovely staff team, as well as all the amazing volunteers who have worked so passionately to raise vital funds for Julia’s House.
“And we want to share our heartfelt thanks to every person who has shopped with us and donated pre-loved treasures in store.
“Together, you have all helped us to provide compassionate and critical care to the most seriously ill children in your community. Thank you.”
Julia’s House still has over a dozen charity shops in the south west and the charity has urged shoppers to keep supporting them.
Funds raised in the stores are put towards providing support for families caring for a child with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition.
We do have 14 other shops across Wiltshire and Dorset, including in Devizes, Warminster, Salisbury and Swindon”, added Mr Bartlett.
“And we want to encourage everyone to please keep donating and shopping with us, and supporting us in other ways through our lottery, donations, fundraising or volunteering, so we can continue our lifeline of care for seriously ill children and their families.
“Without the support of the local community, we wouldn’t be able to provide our vital service.”
The now vacant unit remains available to let for a rent of £32,500 and can be purchased on a 999-year lease.
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