The story started about in 2004 when a group of friends began to see a gap in provision for families in Leatherhead. There were 3 or 4 very good charity shops, but none of them specialised in children’s clothes or equipment, and there was only 1 childrens clothes shop in the town.
We began to gather good quality unwanted babies and children’s clothes with the idea of having regular sales in the theatre, but also being moblie and taking them to the schools, toddler groups etc.
An opportunity came up to look at a shop that was closing down on the Kingston Road and when we looked at it, it was perfect in every way. The location was ideal, it was really well equipped, the size was great and so the dream was born.
We wanted it to be a shop with a difference, to really serve the families in the immediate area but also further afield. Children’s clothes can be very expensive and we set ourselves a target that nothing would be over £3.00, that quickly came down to £2.50 and now it is £2.00. To be able to achieve this we knew we needed something extra to happen and a group of friends including one business supports the shop by sponsoring the rent.
The shop opened on the 24th January 2005. It has exceeded our expectations in so many ways. We have made many friends in the community, and we could not have achieved half of what has happened without the generosity of people continuing to donate great quality clothes, toys, equipment and small items of furniture.
Having a small tea and coffee area has been a very important aspect of the shop, it has given mums and dads, a chance to relax while children can play in the play area. It has become a bit of a gathering place and community meetings sometimes take place in the shop. We also enjoy the company of the older generation who come in for tea and a chat and who themselves feel they benefit from mixing with young families.
This is a very resourceful, lively community and we are delighted to be part of the Leatherhead story. There are many more dreams waiting!
(Author: B@titude Team)