Abergavenny has a fine range of charity shops, of which Oxfam is one. Situated in the heart of town in Frogmore Street, Oxfam Abergavenny prides itself on being a quality shop which raises money for charity.
Ed Howells, pictured talking to customer Mrs Clayton of Gilwern, has worked as a volunteer in Oxfam Abergavenny for five years. When he retired he was looking for something to fill in time, and thought of Oxfam as he believes in the work done by the charity.
Nicola Prosser, the shop manager, says: “Sadly, people sometimes have a negative image of charity shops, but we have come a long way since our shop opened over 35 years ago. The quality of donations we receive now helps us to raise over £125,000 a year to support Oxfam’s work around the world.”
Oxfam is always grateful for donations of clothes and household items, but just now is particularly asking people to bring in their unwanted books. The two week period 2-16 July sees Oxfam’s third annual Bookfest, when Oxfam Abergavenny, along with other Oxfam shops throughout the UK, will be showcasing the more unusual and valuable books donated to the shop. Marian Senior, a volunteer who helps to sort and price books at Oxfam Abergavenny, says: “We are always looking for good quality, saleable books, so if you’re having a sort-out, please think of us.”
Oxfam Abergavenny has only two part-time paid staff, and relies on the support of volunteers to run the shop. Nicola is keen to hear from anyone living locally who can offer half a day a week (that’s four and a half hours) to work as a volunteer. She says: “As well as doing something useful, it’s a great way to meet people. Perhaps you’ve retired and come to live near family members in Abergavenny. Working in your local Oxfam shop is a way of using your skills and making new friends at the same time. We’d be really pleased to have more mature people in the team.”
