A NEW fundraising shop for Julia's House children's hospice has opened in Dorset.

The shop, in High Street, Shaftesbury, was officially opened by Julia’s House Chief Executive Martin Edwards and a family whose young daughter Willow is supported by the charity. Willow was assisted to perform the ribbon-cutting ceremony by Natasha Valentine, the daughter of charity founder Julia Perks.

Providing support to the families of children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, Julia’s House offers a bespoke service wherever care is most needed – in the home, in the community or at their hospices in Corfe Mullen and Devizes.

The Shaftesbury shop will be open from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm and will feature a wide range of women’s, men’s and children’s clothing, as well as bric-a-brac, toys and homeware. Julia’s House shops are known for their distinct ‘boutique’ style and have played a part in transforming the look and feel of charity shops locally.

The new shop is looking for donations of good quality smaller items but can also arrange to collect larger items including furniture and electrical goods. Funds raised from shop sales will go towards supporting families like Willow’s.

There are roles available at the Shaftesbury shop for anybody who would like to volunteer their time to help out for a few hours a week. For more information, enquire in store or contact Liz Froud on 01202 644220.