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

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 £1 for tea and coffee.”

The area will be used for a ‘seniors day’ for two days a week from 10am to 3pm with the store providing board games, cards and other items.

On three days a week the area will be used for crafting and upcycling, 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 upcycling.

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.”

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.”