New Shropshire charity shop calls for helping hands after 'flying start'

A new charity shop in Market Drayton is enjoying a flying start, with strong support from shoppers and donors - but now needs more volunteers to help keep up the momentum.

The Midlands Air Ambulance Charity (MAAC) opened its Market Drayton shop earlier this year in the former Argos premises on Frogmore Road.

Since opening, the store has proved popular with the local community, attracting a steady stream of customers and an abundance of donations.

Now, with the shop open seven days a week, the team is appealing for more volunteers - particularly those able to help at weekends.

The charity relies on public support to fund its life-saving air ambulance services, which can be called upon by anyone in an emergency. Its shops play an important role in raising the funds needed to keep the service flying.

Shop manager Niamh Coyle said: “We are open during the main shopping hours seven days a week. Our team of volunteers support us in many ways, by offering their time and skills for anything from a couple of hours to two or three longer blocks of time each week.

“There is also a member of paid staff on hand to support volunteers when needed. This shop makes a vital contribution to the financial success of the charity, selling large furniture items, clothing and many other items.”

Volunteers receive training in their preferred roles, but those with specialist knowledge of collectibles, books, vinyl records and CDs can be particularly valuable in identifying donations that may have additional interest or value.

The team would also welcome people with experience of online selling.

Assistant manager Amy Maxwell said volunteers contribute far more than their time in the shop, with some also helping at recruitment fairs and important local events.

She added: “Given our seven-day operation, we would like a few more people to manage the till at the weekend.”

For those already involved, volunteering has brought a range of personal benefits, from friendship and companionship to a renewed sense of purpose.

Lynda Price decided to volunteer after losing her husband and giving up work.

She said: “I enjoy the friendship and the variety of work. Having been employed as a support worker in social care, being around people is important to me.”

Roger Edwards, who retired two years ago, also found volunteering helped him adjust to a new chapter in life.

He said: “I felt a little lost without the structure and purpose work provides. I have benefited a great deal personally from volunteering here.”

A spokesperson for the store said volunteer roles can offer opportunities for people who may face barriers to finding paid employment, with a flexible approach and inclusive working environment that has made volunteering accessible to people with a range of circumstances.

“With some people having difficulty finding employment, volunteering can be an effective way for young people or those between jobs to boost their chances by strengthening their CV,” Amy added.

Anyone interested in joining the team can email [email protected] or call into the shop for an informal chat.