CHARITY shops are expecting a boom in business following the loss of revenue since March 2020.

All non-essential shops have been given the green light by the Government to re-open from April 12 as lockdown measures are gradually eased.

Charities in Ryedale – including St Catherine’s and Age UK – are preparing to welcome back customers old and new.

St Catherine’s has 11 charity shops in North Yorkshire including Malton, Pickering and Helmsley.

Susan Stephenson, communications manager, says the charity shops are a key source of income and earn more than £1m a year.

“We can’t wait to reopen our shops and welcome customers back through our doors,” she said.

“We have put measures in place to ensure that customers feel safe and happy to come in and browse, knowing they are also supporting an excellent cause.

“We have lots of spring/summer stock ready for sale and we will also be glad to accept donations of saleable goods once the shops are open. We look forward to seeing you all again soon.”

Age UK has announced that its Kirkbymoorside branch is re-opening inline with the Government roadmap on April 12.

Safety measures will be in place to protect customers, volunteers and staff, such as social distancing, sanitiser stations and PPE.

Age UK charity shops are a key source of revenue for their service, which supports the elderly and provides a lifeline especially during the pandemic.

Matthew Pollard, manager of the Kirkbymoorside branch, said: “We’re so excited to be able to open our doors again.

“All items purchased help raise much-needed funds for Age UK so it can continue supporting people in later life. We are also appealing to anyone in Kirkbymoorside or surrounding areas who may be able to give up some time to help out by volunteering at the shop.

“We depend on the support of volunteers, so if you have found yourself with more free time and think you can help us, please give us a call.”