Christmas came early to Blackheath last Thursday (19 December) as Acorns Children’s Hospice opened its brand-new superstore – complete with with a squirrel-themed reading corner for the youngest customers.

‘Bushy-tailed and bright-eyed’ shoppers went ‘nuts’ for bargains at the store’s official opening, which offers a wide range of quality pre-loved homeware, furniture and electronic goods alongside bargain clothes, toys and books.

The Blackheath shop is the charity’s fifth superstore and the largest to date, spanning over 9,000 square feet, helping to raise vital funds for children with life limiting and life threatening conditions.

Gary Pettit, Retail Director at Acorns, said: “We are thrilled to be opening our newest superstore and expanding our presence in the Black Country – giving more shoppers the chance to support children and families, as well as find some fantastic treasures.

“The people of Blackheath have been huge supporters of Acorns for over 15 years now, making our previous shop in the area such a success. We wanted to show our commitment to the town by investing locally and bringing our complete range of second-hand quality goods all under one roof.”

The store is offering exciting features unique to its location, like a designated donation drop-off zone and its very own on-site car park, in addition to the new children’s area which features a floor-to-ceiling spray painting of a squirrel by local artist Michael Batchelor.

Gary said: “There’s no better place for the local community to come together than at our very own children’s reading nook. Be sure to stay tuned as we prepare to unveil a stunning external mural featuring our squirrel – with help from local primary school children, who we’re sure will give it the perfect name.”

With the charity’s retail operation generating more than £2 million in profit every year towards Acorns lifeline care for local children and families, the team is calling on the community to shop, donate and volunteer at the new superstore.

Gary added: “To make our latest retail venture the most impactful yet for Acorns, we need the help of the local community. Whether it’s donating quality items, giving the gift of time by volunteering, or simply choosing to shop with us – we need you! However you choose to support us, you’ll be helping make sure children and families facing unimaginable challenges are never alone.”

The Blackheath superstore will be open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Contact the shop by telephoning 0121 728 5223, or arrange a furniture collection by email at furnitureblackheath@acorns.org.uk.

Every family deserves the chance to create unforgettable memories with their child, no matter how short their time together.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care for babies, children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions, and support that allows their families to make the most of each precious moment.

In the past year, the charity has cared for more than 780 children across the West Midlands, and supported over 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.

This vital gift of care and support is provided from Acorns three hospices, based in Birmingham, Walsall and Worcester, and in the community.

Acorns needs around £35,000 each day to provide its children’s hospice care, with two thirds of that amount coming from generous donations and fundraising by the local community.

Give us the gift of time and volunteer at our Blackheath superstore. Visit www.acorns.org.uk/volunteering for current opportunities or to register your interest.