A NEW superstore is opening its doors in Greenock next week - run by one of the area's most popular charities.

Staff and volunteers at Ardgowan Hospice say they are 'very excited' to open a new store at the former Carpetright unit in the Waterfront Retail Park.

The hospice is moving its current furniture and electrical shop at Carnock Street to the new location, with customers able to buy everything from sofas and white goods to books and clothes.

Linda Kelly, income generation manager, says the new store will take the hospice into the heart of the community.

She said: “The retail environment is very difficult at the moment and even charity shops are feeling the pinch.

"We were offered this space and it is a fantastic opportunity to try and offer something new to our existing customers and also attract new shoppers to the charity sector and support the work of the hospice."

The charity has been offered the vacant unit, between Home Bargains and Bensons for Beds, for a rent-free period of three months.

Linda added: “Our Carnock Street location was tucked away and we missed out on passing trade.

"The new superstore will continue to offer high quality furniture and electrical goods and in addition this purpose built unit and central location gives us the space and facilities to create a new shopping experience for our customers."

Linda McEnhill, chief executive of Ardgowan Hospice, hopes the new superstore will compliment their established shops in West Stewart Street and in the Oak Mall Shopping Centre.

She said: “We rely on fundraising for over 60 per cent of our income to provide funds for patient care and support.

"Our shops contribute to our fundraising, but there has been a reduction in retail income and this reflects the considerable pressures seen on the high street nationally.

“We have looked very hard at our running costs to make sure our retail units are profitable.

"This offer of new premises gives us an opportunity to try something new and help increase our income.

"We are delighted to be able to offer this new shopping experience to our supporters."

The new store will be open from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and will also open on Sunday between noon and 4pm.

An official opening ceremony will take place on Monday at 10am and the hospice is giving customers, on presentation of a promotional leaflet, a 15 per cent discount on all purchases in February.

Anyone who would like to volunteer at the store should phone 07791414392.

Donations can be dropped off at the rear of the new store or via the hospice's free collection service.