A TAMESIDE charity is pioneering a way of shopping by becoming the first in the north west to set up a gift card for its shop.
Willow Wood, on the border of Ashton and Stalybridge, has introduced a way of buying gifts that is better for then environment.
For the cards are fully compostable, so as well as benefitting customers’ green sides it is as the fashion industry is second only to the oil industry in terms of pollution.
Sharon Hodgkiess, retail operations manager at the hospice, said: “If you’re a regular customer in our town centre shops, you’ll know just how good they are.
“Our community donates thousands of high quality items to us every week, and the large turnover means that there’s something different in stock every time you visit.
“We’re thrilled to be the first North West charity to join this scheme.
“Not only does it encourage recycling of goods, but the card itself is fully compostable, a real plus if you’re concerned about the environment.”
Willow Wood shops are expecting a busy few weeks as Christmas approaches with people buying fashion, as well as them books, toys, household essentials, baby goods and furniture and more they sell.
They also could come in handy for those looking for a Secret Santa gift.
Sharon added: “We’ve got key-rings, purses and more, or alternatively, how about recycling one of our pre-loved jigsaws or board games?
“There’s also our reception gift shop with a much larger range including costume jewellery, hats, scarves, and even the specially produced Willow Wood Gin!
“It’s open until 8pm every day and, like our other shops, is also stocked with our Christmas cards and 2022 diaries, although I must point out that the gift cards cannot be used on new or sale items.
“If you’ve never shopped with us before, we’d love to see you.”
• Gift cards can be purchased from all the Willow Wood shops or online: www.willowwood.info/shops