Bolton: YMCA opens new store in town centre

A chord was cut and people gathered in the street for the opening of YMCA's new store on Market Street.

A sign had been put out outside the building alerting people to the fact it was opening at 9.30am on Thursday.

And as a result dozens gathered on the street outside and waited patiently for the doors to open.

Once the chord was cut people went into the store and had a look at what was on offer, which included clothing, books, DVDS, furniture and other items.

Rachel Ralph, the area manager for the YMCA, was present for the opening.

She said: “We have been working on the opening for two months.

“It has been absolutely fantastic to see people come down.

“It is great to be supported by the local community.

“We need donations and we need volunteers.

“People can come in and see us and talk about volunteering.

“We are close to the other YMCA in Bolton town centre which supports people on low incomes with accommodation.

“We have other similar stores to this in Manchester, Longridge, Halifax, Ashton under Lyne, Middleton, Harpurhey and we are opening one soon in Skelmersdale.”

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The store has three employees including a store manager who has worked for the YMCA elsewhere and two new members of staff.

The YMCA, which goes back to 1844, currently operates 100 stores in England and Wales and supports 572,000 young people every year.

One person who enjoyed the opening was Doreena Troci.

She said: “I saw two days ago that it was going to be opening.

“I saw it when I was walking down the street.

“I have already found a handbag that I will buy.

“I will definitely be coming back, it is good for the town centre.”