A KNOWLE charity shop has been crowned West Midlands winner of a top competition.
The Marie Curie charity shop on Knowle High Street claimed the title in The UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards, run by the Charity Retail Association.
Rowan Saunders, retail manager of the Marie Curie shop in Knowle, said: “It’s an honour to be named the West Midlands favourite charity shop and I’m so proud of our wonderful team of volunteers for their ongoing commitment, passion and hard work.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their votes and continued support – it’s so appreciated.”
The shop opened in 2004 and sells donated clothing, books, homeware, and accessories to help fund the leading end of life charity’s expert end of life and palliative care services. This includes Marie Curie’s hospices, nursing services and free information and support line.
The store has also been recognised for hosting engaging events in the local community.
It was one of more than 5,000 shops nominated across the UK and claimed the winning regional spot in a decision involving more than 40,000 public votes.
A total of 12 charity shops have been crowned area winners in the awards – based in each of the nine English regions, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The overall winner will be announced in November.
Robin Osterley, chief executive of the Charity Retail Association, said: “Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who voted.
“The volume of support the Awards received this year not only demonstrates the public’s passion for their favourite stores but really shows the impact they have within their local communities and the difference they make to people’s lives.”
