A Chippenham charity shop was ‘taken over’ by the younger generation last weekend.

The Barnardo’s store in Pewsham hosted a visit from local children and young people with additional needs who are supported by the charity’s local youth clubs.

Two teams helped to sort the donations and serve customers, with A Place 4 Us from Calne volunteering from 10-11am and the Phoenix Youth Club from Chippenham volunteering from 11am-12noon.

The aim of the event was to boost their self-confidence and self-esteem while providing valuable work experience. Several now hope to return as regular volunteers.

Barnardo’s co-ordinator Harry Fowler said: “We provide activities throughout the area to support young people with additional needs, helping them to achieve their potential.

“Many find it difficult to access education or work, and may experience social isolation, so we hoped this exciting opportunity would show what they can do.

“We had two teams of four, aged from 13 to 21 years old, who had a go at all sorts of tasks associated with running a modern charity shop.

“They helped with sorting donations, arranging displays, steaming clothes and serving at the till.

"They were warmly received by customers – one said they were ‘fantastic sales assistants’!

“All of the young people thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and several now hope to return as regular volunteers.”

The youth clubs are for young people with additional needs, with an age range of 13-18 years old for Chippenham and 13-25 years old for Calne.

Activities include bowling, DVD and games nights, sports sessions and arts and crafts.

Call 01249 463907 for more information on how to join.

The Barnardo’s store is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5pm and on Sundays from 10am-4pm.

It welcomes donations of good-quality clothes, books, toys, games, accessories and bric-a-brac, as well as offers of help from potential volunteers. Call 01249 445524 to help.