IT only opened its doors to customers last month, but Ringwood’s Toy Exchange and Donation Scheme has been told it has just four months to pack up and get out.
TEDS nearly new store is a one-stop shop selling baby and children’s toys and equipment to raise funds for Julia’s House as well as a host of other local charities.
The social enterprise was founded by Ringwood mums Dana Elsworth and Liz Wells and has been set up in the Old Auction House on Southampton Road.
They have spent hours setting up the giant second hand store, cleaning and sorting through all the donations.
The owners allowed them use of the dilapidated building while plans were being drawn up to replace it with sheltered housing.
Dana said while the pair knew their lease was for six months and then a one-month rolling contract, they were shocked when they saw the planning notice had been placed outside. They now have 19 weeks to leave on August 24. She added: “We are unique, I don’t think there is anything like this elsewhere in the country.
“We also offer an exchange scheme, where people can swap their unwanted items for money-off vouchers to buy other things.
“We knew it was going to be for a minimum of six months but we were really disappointed when we saw the notices.
“It took us two years to find this location and we haven’t even had a chance to enjoy being here yet!”
The TEDS team are now on the look out for new suitable premises in Ringwood and are also keen to add more volunteers to their team.
For more information visit www.toys4charity.org
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