A Sandbach-based animal charity which has been running for over 40 years has opened its first charity shop.

Sandbach Mayor, Councillor Kathryn Flavell, cut the ribbon at Sandbach Animal Rescue Society's new shop today (Good Friday).

And it was a fitting occasion for the Mayor as Sandbach Animal Rescue Society is one of her two charities for her year in office.

"I was delighted to help as mayor and cut the ribbon on the shop in George's Walk," she said.

Crowds waited to watch the ribbon being cut at the shop in St George's Walk near Waitrose.

And the forward-thinking charity, which holds regular coffee mornings and other events, is not just helping its rescue cats.



For the shop will be helping parents and carers, stocking unwanted school uniform donations and the long-term expanding to other youth groups.

Head fundraiser and event organiser, Karen Guy, said the shop idea had been a plan for a while but it had all come together quickly.

"We've kitted it out in 12 days since getting the keys and we're delighted with result. We're the only Sandbach-based charity shop in the town," said Karen.

"We're stocking school uniforms from Sandbach schools – secondary or primary – and are grateful for any donations.

"We know how expensive school uniforms can be and we're doing a bit by helping parents and carers. 

The shop is decked out in the charity's colour, purple, and will be manned entirely by volunteers.

In the future, Sandbach Animal Rescue Society plan to look at stocking other uniforms including scouts and cubs. 

The shop will be open from 10 am until 4 pm Wednesday to Saturday and is open for donations and requests for more volunteers.

"It's an exciting time for us and we're looking forward to being part of the Sandbach shopping community," said Karen.