A CHARITY shop aimed at providing low cost furniture and household goods for Barry and Vale people has officially opened in Thompson Street, Barry.

ReStore, which also aims to reduce landfill and provide volunteering opportunities, invited Vale AM Jane Hutt and Barry mayor, Cllr Janice Charles to declare the project open on Thursday, April 11.

The Coastlands Family Church initiative, located under Newydd Housing's Ty'r Gyfraith homes in the former Original Factory Shop, also hosts a collection point for the Vale Foodbank and a space for the church’s Baby Basics scheme.

The store, open to the public since October last year, has been trading for four years having previously been based at Haydock House, in Holton Road.

Coastlands Family Church minister and project director, Mike Holmes said: “This project’s humble beginnings began in one of the rooms in my home.

“Barry needed something like this to support families.”

A £5000 grant enabled them to buy a van to be able to deal with collections.

The most unusual item donated is a Skiffle base, made by 70-year-old Lenny Richards to support the project.

Shop manager, Sara Jones said: “We are working not to raise funds for anyone but to cover our costs and any money left over will be given to support the Vale Foodbank.

“We are already open and supporting lots of families and people in the area who want good furniture without the huge price tag.

“All of our items are donated so saves landfill.

“We can make basic repairs to furniture.

“We also provide volunteer opportunities for people who may have lost confidence in an employment situation or want retail experience to be able to gain a job in that area.

“People can donate furniture and household goods rather than taking them to landfill when there is nothing wrong with them.

Vale AM Jane Hutt said: “We have got to praise Coastlands Family Church because it is really providing a service to the community.”

Vale mayor, Cllr Charles added that she was proud to be a member of the church.

“There’s a community of love,” she said. “I’ve never seen so much love out there and it’s an example of what Christianity is all about.”

Mr Holmes thanked the volunteers and staff who had made the venture possible.

All donations of household items, in good condition, are welcome and collection can be arranged.

The shop is open 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday.

For details visit ReStore furniture shop on Facebook or visit valelifehouse.co.uk; email restore@valelifehouse@gmail.com or call 07874 696684.