Shoppers looking for a bargain are in for a treat as Saint Francis Hospice has opened its first charity shop in Ilford.

The new store in High Road, which sells new and quality donated clothes, books, homeware and toys, was opened on Friday by Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Felicity Banks, Ilford North MP Lee Scott and hospice mascot, Frankie the Lion.

Steve Rose, general manager of Saint Francis Hospice shops, said: “We’re delighted to have a Saint Francis Hospice shop in Ilford as it’s been an aspiration for the charity for a long-time. Customers are not only able to pick up a bargain but can be confident their purchase will make a real difference to people in their community.”

Money raised from the 16 hospice shops goes towards the Romford-based charity’s work providing specialist medical care and support, free of charge, to people from Redbridge and surrounding boroughs.

Cllr Banks added: “It was a privilege to open the shop in Ilford and I wish it every success for the future. The hospice provides inpatient care for borough residents and does outreach work in Redbridge.”

The shop, which is open from Monday to Saturday from 9am-5pm and Sundays 11am-5pm, welcomes unwanted items to sell and volunteers to help run the shop.

If you have some time to spare please contact the Michelle on 020 8553 0068.