Charity superstore prepares to reopen

Preparations are being made for the reopening of Doncaster’s Children’s Air Ambulance Hanger Superstore – subject to Government guidelines – on Friday June 5th.

Operated by The Air Ambulance Service, the giant charity shop at Thorne Road Retail Park is a popular shopping destination for people in the town.

Income from the superstore enables the charity to operate and support NHS partners working on the frontline.

Throughout the current Covid-19 crisis the charity has continued to provide lifesaving inter-hospital transfer services for critically ill babies and children.

Superstore manager Scott Bannister has a message for existing and new customers:

“It is safe to shop and donate. We look forward to welcoming you to the store. Please come along and help save lives by supporting our cause”.

Due to the Covid-19 crisis, the charity is facing a projected net loss of income of at least £2.18million for the months April to June. It has also had to spend £22,000 on installing screens, hand sanitiser stations, social distancing signage and other health and safety measures in its network of shops.

“The safety of our customers, volunteers and staff is our priority. We had fantastic support from the local community before the lockdown, and I thank them for that. My hope now is that it will continue when we reopen.”

“I am looking forward to welcoming back customers and ask that they follow in-store safety measures which will be clearly signposted.

“Anyone with extra time on their hands, due to the Covid-19 crisis, who wants to volunteer at the Superstore please get in touch - there are plenty of jobs for you to do and we would really appreciate your help” says Scott.

The quality and range of stock in the Superstore has not been affected by the lockdown and there will be the usual array of bargains and good value buys available from summer clothing and household items to electrical goods and furniture. There is also a wide selection of stay at home activities for children and adults.

Opening hours will be 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday. All payments will be card only and the café will not be open.

Collection and delivery services will be operated within social distancing guidelines with one driver only in a vehicle. This will limit the type and size of items that can be handled.

Donations will only be collected from outside properties and should be left in a garden or on a driveway.