ST LUKE'S Hospice will not be reopening its charity shops next month.

Charity shops are on a list of retailers given permission to re-open on June 15 under new government guidelines.

However, the charity says it needs more time to introduce new social distancing measures to ensure the safety of staff, volunteers and customers.

Hospice shops in Winsford, Middlewich and Northwich and the warehouse in Winsford are not able to take any donations at present but urge the public to bear with them until they can open their doors again.

Sarah James, communications officer at St Luke's Hospice, said: "We are a small local charity and there is some work to do operationally to ensure that we can achieve social distancing for our staff, volunteers and customers. Their safety is our top priority.

Northwich Guardian:

Volunteer Steve Harrison who normally helps at St Luke's Hospice warehouse in Winsford

"We are completely committed to reopening our charity shops in Winsford, Middlewich and Northwich. They are extremely important for the vital role they play in fundraising for patient care at the hospice.

"If people could hold onto their donations until we reopen we would really appreciate it."

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The warehouse in Winsford reopened for two days earlier this month and was inundated with donations.

"It was incredibly successful," said Sarah. "Everyone was very orderly and took notice of safety guidance. We received a lot of donations.

"The support we receive from the local community is absolutely amazing. We are so grateful for it and couldn't keep going without it. A big big thank you to everyone who has continued to support us through the lockdown."

Donated goods are being sold on the hospice's ebay site.

To see what is on offer visit https://www.slhospice.co.uk/shopping/ebay-secondhand-goods/ or https://www.charity.ebay.co.uk/charity/St-Luke%60s-Hospice-Trading-Limited/22926