TV presenter opens our Rugeley Store
15 April 2025 | View all news
Hundreds of customers turned up to grab a bargain as Charles Hanson, auctioneer, antiques expert and TV presenter, opened our new Rugeley shop.
Charles is a familiar face to fans of Bargain Hunt, Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip. We were delighted to welcome him to cut the ribbon, officially opening our new store.
In an amazing show of support, people flocked to the opening day, many bringing donations along as well.
A privilege to be involved
Charles commented: “It was a privilege to be a part of the opening of Katharine House Hospice in Rugeley and we made a memory today.
“Life can be a journey for so many – we never know what is around the corner – and to help give energy and warmth to such a wonderful cause and charity, to help celebrate life but also support people during extremely testing times, was a real joy.
“Katharine House Hospice steps in not just for patients, but for families too, and it was a thrill to meet such wonderful people across a community.”
Retail and our care
We have been providing free specialist care for people living with incurable illnesses and their families for 35 years, helping around 30,000 families since 1989.
It costs us almost £4 million a year to provide free specialist care to families living with incurable illnesses. Last year, our retail operation contributed £1.6 million towards this.
David Fletcher, our director of care, added: “Without the income generated by our retail operation, we wouldn’t be able to provide our specialist care.
“Our shops are vital to protect the future of our charity and we have high hopes for this new store in a town that for more than 30 years has been home to many of our patients, their families and carers.”
Thank you, Rugeley
Shop Manager, George Bradley, commented: “The people of Rugeley have greeted our charity with open arms.
“Even before we were fully open, people were dropping off donations, asking about opportunities to volunteer in our shop, and just popping in to chat and share memories of how our care has helped them and their loved ones.
“It was a fantastic turnout with lots of people coming throughout the day, live music, and a flood of donations.
“Thank you to everyone for such amazing support. Long may it continue!”
Staff, volunteers and friends of the charity all attended the event.
Interested in volunteering?
If you would like to find out more about volunteering in our Rugeley shop, contact our Retail Team on 01785 218252 or call into the shop in person and speak with our manager.