This is why you should support Wrexham's charity shops

Following on from two fashion week campaigns which took place towards the end of last month, I decided to pop down to my local Nightingale Charity Shop to see what bargains I could find...

(Image: Newsquest)

Nightingales stores are the retail branch of Nightingale House Hospice, and they are a haven for those looking to make ethical and affordable choices.

For a small-ish unit, Wrexham's branch on Borras Park Road is packed with everything you could ever think of. Clothes, collectable home interior pieces, children's books and toys, shoes, cards for every occasion and bath sets. Actually, there were plenty of wonderful gift sets if anyone has already started thinking about Christmas...

Definitely something you'd have found in my grandparents house growing up! (Image: Newsquest)

I was immediately drawn to the 'home' section, and what I love is that every item is completely unique with its own history. I found myself wanting to know who had previously owned these antiques, how old they were, and where had they come from. 

For anyone who is renovating or has just bought a new home, the Nightingale Charity Shop is the place to look. Everything looked new; from crockery and cutlery, to glassware, photo frames, vases, utensils, pots and pans, radios and ornaments. There was even a record player which would easily cost over £80 online.

So many unique pieces for your kitchen/dining area (Image: Newsquest)

My personal favourite, with so much character, was the old biscuit jar disguised as a garden shop. A perfect and quirky addition to someone's kitchen.

The shop also had beautifully made shoes, made from real and faux leather, ideal for any last minute getaways abroad! I was also surprised by how many colourful accessories made an appearance. Bags in every colour and every material proudly on display, and most looked expensive, despite being on offer for £5-9.

The shop was packed full of wonderful donations! You could easily spend an hour browsing through everything.. (Image: Newsquest)

In fact, everything was incredibly affordable. Items that would usually cost five-times as much online or in retail shops on the High Street, simply because they are pre-loved. Another bonus is that everything is one-of-a-kind. 

There were plenty of hoodies and activewear, featuring brands such as Adidas, Nike, New Balance, Reebok and Converse. Not to mention sweaters and warmer pieces by Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and North Face. Brands which, once again, would cost over £150 brand new.

The place to be if you're looking to expand your bag collection (Image: Newsquest)

It's also a great place to stock up on your favourite books, films and gifts for children. There were dolls and games which had been donated unopened, as well as dress-up costumes and outdoor boots.

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I couldn't resist picking up a few classic childhood books (which all looked brand new) for a family friend. I also grabbed some stationary (the joys of adulthood), a new scrapbook and a couple of perfume gift sets which were packaged beautifully for upcoming birthdays. 

And to make the experience even better, you're reminded that every penny is going to a wonderful cause - Nightingale House Hospice, where patients and their families can receive the support they deserve. 

So, whether you're on the hunt for something specific, or you've got some time to browse, check out the charity shops in your local area.

Find your nearest shop:

• Borras Park Road, Borras, Wrexham 
• Central Precinct, Buckley
• New Street, Mold
• Cross Street, Oswestry 
• High Street, Whitchurch
• Regent Street, Wrexham 
• RE-USE, Bryn Lane Recycling Centre, Wrexham