Regenerage opens in Middlebrook with queues out the door

In scenes reminiscent of boxing day sales, people were waiting in line for the opening of a  - charity shop.

But this is no ordinary charity shop, rather it has the feel of a luxury department store, with pieces to match.

Designer clothes by Armani and Vivienne Westwood are on sale at Regenerage, previously known as Age Concern Central Lancashire.

The store is one of the country’s largest independently run community charity superstores.

Scores of people waited outside for the superstore to open at 10am and with bargain lovers gushing over their finds as they waited for an hour in the rush.

One regular thrift-savvy shopper came all the way from Rochdale to find her next pre-loved outfit.

Melody Gibbons said: “It’s massive for a charity shop, and it’s so much busier than I expected.

“There’s a lot to look at and I’ve only been here about four minutes yet.

“I charity shop all the time, it’s like a hobby of mine, and I heard about this through Becky’s Bazaar on TikTok.

“The organisation is good the way they have colour co-ordinated everything and usually the charity shops I go to are dinky little rooms, but I have never been to one this big before, and I’ve been to a lot of charity shops all over the country.”

To celebrate the grand opening, the first 100 customers were entered into a raffle prize draw to win a £50 voucher to spend in-store, while free branded tote bags were given out.

Adding to the big opening dazzling stilt walkers greeted shoppers as they arrived at the new store.

CEO Suzanne Carr was dressed head to toe in thrifted designer wear from the charity’s other shops.

She said: “Today is absolutely amazing and it has exceeded our expectations.

It has met our hopes and dreams.

“We want people to come and enjoy our charity retail experience and we do think that Regenerage does a brilliant job at it and our other shops are beautiful and people comment on the quality and the stock as well as how we brand and present ourselves.

“Going large at Middlebrook was a challenge but we had a vision, and we knew that we wanted to deliver the very best at what we do.”

The store features designer clothing labels such as Monsoon, Ralph Lauren, and Armani at discounted prices.

There is also a  homeware section, with ornaments, artwork, furniture, books and home appliances like washing machines and fridges.

With its own bridal suite section, Regenerage is aiming to change the way people view charity shopping.

Glynis Baker from Westhoughton said: “I’ve got some wine glasses that I’ve been looking for, for a long time but managed to get them here.

“There are all these expensive dresses with good rates, you’re getting a bargain.

“And if somebody was getting married, with the cost-of-living crisis, they’d save a lot of money and there’s something here for everyone, from bride, groom to the family.”

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Regenerage operates three activity day centres giving local people the opportunity to learn new skills, have fun and make friends in comfortable surroundings.

From dementia support to physical fitness and social activities, these services are designed to help combat loneliness, provide respite for family or carers and empower older people to enjoy life.

The charity also works in partnership with specialists to provide financial and legal advice, plus support with safety devices and medical aids.

Furniture donations and volunteering opportunities are available.