STAFF and volunteers at two Ardgowan Hospice shops are opening the doors for the first time in three months.

The Kempock Street and West Stewart Street shops will begin trading again after lockdown measures were eased.

Customers can expect new protective measures in the shops as they have adapt to the 'new normal'.

Linda Kelly, the head of corporate development for the hospice, said: "We are absolutely delighted that we are able to reopen two of our shops this weekend.

"We have put in the relevant safety measures to allow us to continue to raise funds for the hospice in a safe environment for our volunteers, customers and staff.

"We can't wait to welcome everyone back in and look forward to seeing customers old and new.

"We ask for everyone’s patience while we adapt to this new temporary normal.”

To keep everyone safe, the number of customers in the shop at any one time will be restricted and there will be hand sanitiser readily available upon entry.

There will be a one way system in place for customers and staff and volunteers will be wearing PPE to stay safe.

The hospice held 'donation days' prior to opening and Katrina Garcias, pictured right, the retail manager, is overwhelmed with the support received.

Katrina told the Tele: "We are so thankful to everyone for their generosity.

"It's been amazing to see how well supported we were when we held our donation days.

"Where before we could accept donations any day, we now have to restrict our intake of donations in line with new government guidelines.

"Our next lot of donation days will be starting the week commencing July 13 and we are thankful to anyone who would be able to help us replenish our stock levels."

While customers can expect to see some familiar faces, many volunteers are still shielding, meaning the hospice is looking for anyone who would be available to help with the day-to-day running of the shops.

Katrina added: "If anyone is interested in volunteering or perhaps is furloughed but is looking for something to keep themselves occupied, we would love to welcome you to volunteer with us.

"Even if it is just until they go back to their own work, we would be delighted to welcome them to help the local hospice.

"It's amazing how Inverclyde have really pulled together during this crisis and I'm so looking forward to seeing our amazing customers again."

*To volunteer or find out more about donation days, email info@ardhosp.co.uk or call 01475 726830.