Our Durham City Shop is fondly dubbed the 'Selfridges of the North' due to its reputation for high quality, often designer pre-loved items. This autumn (2020) the shop will celebrate twenty years of trading. Lucille Thomson has volunteered there since its opening and shares a few memories from that time.
“I was not on volunteer duty for the opening day, but I attended the official ceremony conducted by well-loved TV agony aunt Denise Robertson, who was such a good friend to the Hospice. She is very much missed. I bought a small glittery white candle in the shape of a Christmas tree which comes out each year when we put up the decorations.”
I have worked in the 'back shop' steaming clothing and pricing goods, and also worked out front tidying, restocking and on the till. Despite being 'snug', small events have been held such as coffee mornings and raffles. Volunteers and staff display great skill in dressing the window, which is often remarked upon favourably by customers.
