Staff take a trip back to the 1990s to celebrate anniversary of Bilston charity shop

There was 1990s music and clothing and special prices as Beacon Centre for the Blind marked 30 years of its Bilston shop with a fun day.

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It was a day to celebrate a significant anniversary and take a trip back in time to where it all began for a Bilston charity shop.

The Beacon Centre for the Blind held a 1990s party to mark three decades since it first opened its Bilston Shop on the High Street in 1994.

The shop has been a cornerstone of the High Street in Bilston, raising vital funds to support people with sight loss across the Black Country and South Staffordshire.

As a way of celebrating 30 years of the shop, the charity held a 1990s-themed anniversary party on Friday, which saw the shop decorated with 1990s-inspired decorations, while the hits of the decade also played throughout the day.

Visitors to the shop also received a free treat and, for one day only, all prices were pegged back to their 1990s equivalent, while staff also wore 1990s-inspired clothing, such as bucket hats, cargo trousers and baggy t-shirts.

Richard Kennea, Head of Retail at Beacon, shared his excitement about the anniversary.

He said: "Reaching 30 years in Bilston is a fantastic milestone for Beacon. 

The shop opened in 1994 and has been a vital part of Bilston's high street sinceplaceholder image
The shop opened in 1994 and has been a vital part of Bilston's high street since

"This shop has played a key role in our mission to support people with sight loss while bringing affordable goods to our local community. 

"We couldn’t have achieved this without the loyalty of our customers, donors, and dedicated team."

Mr Kennea was also keen to recognise and congratulate all the people who had been part of the shop's journey over the last 30 years.

He said: "As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we are proud to recognise the dedication of two extraordinary volunteers who have been integral to our Bilston shop’s success. 

"One volunteer has been with us since the very beginning, giving an incredible 30 years of service, while another has devoted an amazing 25 years to supporting the shop. 

"Their commitment and passion have played a vital role in creating the welcoming and vibrant atmosphere our community knows and loves. 

"We are truly grateful for their unwavering support and the difference they continue to make.”

For more information about Beacon Centre for the Blind and the work it does, go to beaconvision.org

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