Beloved Llanelli charity shop marks 25-years

Llanelli’s much‑loved charity shop run by The Salvation Army has celebrated a quarter of a century at the heart of the community.

Scarlets and Scotland prop Alec Hepburn manned the tills to help staff while Llanelli Mayor Councillor John Prosser also dropped in to the anniversary celebration on Thursday 27 November, which featured a buffet and cake plus all clothing was sold for a pound for the day with big discounts on furniture. 

Former staff from down the years were also present with many local people stopping by for a bargain.

Since opening its doors in 2000 at 28 Murray Street, Llanelli, the shop has been more than simply a place to find discounts, it’s been a lifeline, a meeting point and a symbol of hope, love and community, raising funds for The Salvation Army’s wider work.

Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Roberts leads The Salvation Army in Wales.

Lt Col Roberts said: “As the Llanelli shop marks this special anniversary I want to thank everyone who works in it, donates to it and shops in it. For 25 years it has been a valued resource for the town and I hope that continues for many years to come.”

Shop manager Antony Chappell, who has run the shop known affectionately as Sally Ann’s for the past six years, said:

“Our charity shop is a focal point in the community, offering support, love and care in so many ways, whether through a friendly chat, a listening ear over a cup of tea, or practical help in someone’s hour of need.”

Over the years, the shop and its staff have built strong partnerships with local schools, health services, churches, community groups, and Llanelli’s rugby team, the Scarlets.

The shop was founded by retired Major Christine Hird 25 years ago, who recalls opening specially one Easter Sunday to help a family left with nothing after a house fire. 

Major Christine said: “The family had only what they were wearing. All other places were closed over the holiday period, so we opened the shop to supply them with much-needed items. The town has supported us from the very beginning. I want to pay tribute to our customers and volunteers, past and present, who have made the shop what it is today.”