CROWDS gathered ahead of the opening of a new charity shop in Dorchester today.

The Salvation Army opened its second store in the county town and says it will now be able to do more to support the local community.

The shop in Trinity Street was officially opened by local town and district councillor Molly Rennie, who cut the ribbon to declare the new facility open.

Jamie Slater from the Salvation Army stressed that the nearby store in the Forum Centre would remain open and having two shops would allow the Salvation Army to do more with a particular emphasis on offering a community space with its kitchen and seating area on the upstairs level of the new shop.

She said: “It's our second charity shop with the emphasis on community functions that will be happening up in the mezzanine area.

“There will be a self-service cafe where you pay a £1 for tea and coffee.”

The area will be used for a 'seniors day' for two days a week from 10am to 3om with the store providing board games, cards and other items and people able to help themselves to tea and coffee.

Jamie said: “People can make new friends or bring their own friends along.”

On three days a week the area will be used for crafting and upcylcing, with anyone able to bring along their own craft projects or enjoy the crafts on offer in store as they learn a new skill and discover more about the benefits of upcylcing.

Jamie said the extra floor space in the shop downstairs would also be of great benefit to the charity and the community.

She said: “With the additional sales space we will be able to really offer more.

“We have people we provide clothing for, do food packages for people in need and it's just one more place for us in the community.”

Other plans include a quite room where people can come and talk to the Salvation Army team about any areas where they need help or support.

Jamie said that she had specifically asked Cllr Rennie to come and open the store because of her strong involvement in the local community.

As she opened the new shop, Cllr Rennie told the crowds gathered outside: “I have to say what a wonderful occasion this is because this actually typifies what the Salvation Army in Dorchester is all about - front facing to the community, wanting to provide services to you all.

“You know you can walk through the front door and a warm welcome will be waiting for you.”