BOSSES at charity store Barnardo’s has said demand at its largest store in the south, based in Bournemouth, is at its highest level ever since opening. 

The superstore, opened in late March in Mallard Road Retail Park, broke records during its opening weekend and bosses say it “continues to perform well”. 

The store takes in around 450 to 600 bags of donations every week and, despite a quieter period during the summer holidays, weekly income has increased by 14 per cent since September. 

Bournemouth Echo: Inside Barnardo's in Mallard Road Retail ParkInside Barnardo's in Mallard Road Retail Park (Image: Daily Echo)

Store manager Steve Lambert said: “It has been an extraordinary few months. No one really knew what to expect as the superstore was something new and it’s been amazing. 

“We are very grateful to the people of Bournemouth and they really seem to appreciate that we are offering something completely unique in the area.  

“It is lovely to hear the complements from people visiting the store for the first time.” 

Mr Lambert added he is welcome to more volunteers to join the 10 employed staff and 30 “wonderful” volunteer team. 

Read more: Barnardo's superstore opens in Bournemouth

“People have been very supportive with their donations, to the point where we had 861 bags one week.  

“A woman turned up with two Transit vans following a house clearance. There were certainly some gems in the donations that week, but I think my favourite item so far has been a two-foot-high cuddly toy from the 1980s called My Pet Monster.  

“It was very ugly, but we put it on eBay and it raised £85!” 

David Longmore, head of store proposition and development, said: “Sales in Bournemouth were ahead of all targets in the first few weeks and the store has continued to perform well for us.” 

Bournemouth Echo: Staff at Barnardo's during the shop's opening day in MarchStaff at Barnardo's during the shop's opening day in March (Image: Daily Echo)

“There’s no doubt that families are increasingly looking at ways of saving money, and they know that charity shops like ours can offer quality items and good value. 

“That’s particularly important going into the winter when parents need to invest in pricier items like coats. 

“People also appreciate that by shopping with us they are supporting our work with some of the most vulnerable children, young people and families in the UK.  

“Our services are in greater demand than ever and this is going to increase as more families struggle to afford the basics.”