THIRTY YEARS AND COUNTING

FOR KNOWLE CHARITY SHOP

A charity shop in Knowle celebrated its 30th birthday with one of the original volunteers on hand to make the party go with a swing.

The St Peter’s Hospice shop on Wells Road opened its doors back in 1981 and has raised over £500,000 for the charity which looks after people with incurable illnesses.

Pam Wilson, who lives in Totterdown, was one of the first people to help out at the shop and has been there ever since, serving customers looking for a bargain. She has also seen a lot of changes over the years as the charity has grown to be arguably the best known in Bristol.

One of the first St Peter’s Hospice outlets to open it now forms part of a 46-strong chain helping raise vital funds towards the £6.5 million needed each year to run the hospice and its related services.

Andrew Hufford, commercial director at St Peter’s Hospice said: “Our shops form a vital part of our fund raising efforts and Knowle has been integral to the on-going work of the hospice. We can’t stress enough how important it is for local people to pop in and buy something as that money goes towards caring for patients and providing support for their families.

“To reach the 30th anniversary is a great achievement and I’d like to thank all those who have helped over the years.

“I’d also like to thank Pam, one of our volunteers, who has been with us from the very beginning. Without people like Pam we wouldn’t be able to provide the help to so many people and their families.”

Pam added: “St Peter’s Hospice is a fantastic cause and I just want to do whatever I can. Because all money raised stays in Bristol means a lot to me especially as I’ve lived here most of my life.”

For further information on the hospice please visit www.stpetershospice.org.uk

ENDS

Issued on behalf of St Peter’s Hospice by Empica. For further information contact Martin Powell (01275) 394400.