A NEW community shop has been unveiled in Bournemouth which aims to support a project for homeless and vulnerable people.

The Boscombe Salvation Army charity store opened for business on Wednesday, January 29 and hopes to provide a range of affordable furniture and clothing items to the community.

All profits will fund the Salvation Army BH1 Project, based in Palmerston Road in Boscombe, which offers washing facilities, home-cooked meals and activities, along with a trained support team for people in the community irrespective of background. Major Ray Begley, who runs the Boscombe Salvation Army along with his wife Carelle, said: “The shop will provide quality, affordable clothing for the community and will also serve as a refuge for anyone needing support.

“We have already had so much interest from people in the area and people have been knocking on the window all week.

“There has been lots of demand so I really hope it will be a success.”

“I hope the community will get behind us with lots of donations of clothing and furniture.”

Major Ray said the shop would continue the charity’s 130 years of service to the local community.

The store has already received generous donations from charitable individuals as well as a huge contribution from the Belvedere Hotel in Bournemouth which is closing down.

“The donation from the Belvedere Hotel was wonderful as they have given us lots of furniture which is all in great condition,” said Major Ray.

Volunteers from the BH1 Project will step in to help run the new community store and it will be overseen by Salvation Army Officer, Captain Mike Smith.