LONGFIELD Hospice's brand new charity shop is opening in Stroud today.

Previously located on Kendrick Street, the charity has moved its store to a larger property in King Street.

Longfield Director of Operations Ian Cherry said: “We’re delighted to be opening our new King Street store in Stroud.

"It was always part of our business plan to relocate to a bigger site which allows us to offer our customers even more fantastic stock from women’s and men’s clothing to books, children’s toys and homeware.

“We have ensured our store adheres to the Government guidelines on safety and social distancing and we look forward to welcoming our old and new customers into the store.”

From now on, the store will be open from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.

The shop won't be taking donations initially but the team are working towards a date when they can.

Another popular charity shop, Emmaus in Nailsworth is also re-opening today. The shop is open for both shopping and dropping donations off.

Oxfam is reopening too, but is not taking donations at this time.

The reopenings follow new Government guidance which means all non-essential shops compliant with a coronavirus risk assessment and which are following government distancing and hygiene guidelines were able to begin trading again this week.

Everyone must still stay two metres apart from each other, and consequently expect their shopping trips to take longer.

“We recognise that this has been a very hard time for many shop owners and operators who have had to close their doors to the public due to the Coronavirus pandemic,” said SDC Leader Doina Cornell.

“We applaud the efforts of many who have adapted their businesses to takeaways and mail order operations but getting the high streets reopened is a key part of driving the local economy.

“We’re working with partners including Gloucestershire County Council, town and parish councils and Stroud & District Chamber of Trade to do all we can to ensure businesses can open safely.”

To help support shoppers and traders, public toilets run by Stroud District Council in Stroud town centre and Stratford Park, Dursley, Nailsworth and Stonehouse, and disabled toilets in Wotton-under-Edge are expected to reopen today (Tuesday, June 16).

Councillor Kevin Cranston, Stroud Town Mayor, encouraged people to support local shops but to be mindful that shopping will be now be a very different experience.

“Please be observant of social distancing measures and be patient,” said Councillor Cranston.

“Our High Street traders need our support now more than ever. Please support our local shops that make Stroud town centre the special place that it is."

Cafes, bars, restaurants and pubs cannot yet open.