New Blue Cross charity shop selling furniture to open in Halesowen

The Blue Cross SuPawstore will open on Hagley Street, opposite Dancers, on Friday October 23.

It is sending a call out to animal lovers who have furniture they could donate as well as appealing for volunteers who want to help out in the shop.

And it is being backed by comedian Jasper Carrott, who hails from Birmingham.

He is appealing for people to support it.

The unit used to be Bright House and before that was a Co-op - it's thought to have been empty for around 18 months.

Mr Carrott, aged 75, said: “I have been an active supporter of Blue Cross for many years and it is wonderful to hear that Halesowen is to have its very own shop to raise funds and help local animals in distress.

"Please support this new venture and together we can make life more comfortable for our beloved pets.”

Volunteers who have a few hours a week are needed to serve in the shop and sort stock.

There is social distancing in the shop and customers are asked to wear a face covering before entering.

David Palmer, Retail Operations Manager at Blue Cross said: “We are very excited to open our first furniture shop in the UK and grateful to Jasper for his support.

"Please get in touch if you have an item you would like to donate, every penny raised through our charity shops really does help the thousands of unwanted, abandoned, sick and injured pets we take in each year.”

Halesowen BID manager Vicky Rogers said it was good news for the town.

She said: "We welcome new businesses especially in the current situation - it's now not an eyesore empty shop.

"Some of the stuff in there looks brand new."

Blue Cross receives no government funding, so relies on the support of the public and dedicated volunteers to continue its vital work.

To volunteer or donate pre-loved items, contact the shop on 0300 777 1676 or email furniture@bluecross.org.uk.

Collections can be arranged within a 10-mile radius of the shop.