Rayleigh and Wickford MP, Mark Francois, recently took time to open an expanded charity shop on the Ashingdon Road, which is run and organised by Hawkwell Baptist Church.
The Church opened in a smaller unit next door some two years ago but, following the success of their original shop, they have moved into larger premises. The new shop, as well as offering an extended shopping area, also has a small coffee bar which has proved particularly popular with local residents who can come in and have a cup of coffee while browsing the goods on offer, or alternatively just find a place to sit and chat.
Mark conducted the official opening, accompanied by the Reverend Richards Iles, the leader of Hawkwell Baptist Church. The opening event was supported by local residents and members of the church congregation.
Commenting on the happy day, Mark Francois said:
“I opened the original shop project by Hawkwell Baptist Church a couple of years ago and so I was very pleased to be invited back to cut the ribbon on their new expanded store. This has proved a really popular concept with residents in the Hawkwell and Ashingdon area and I would like to commend the church and all that they have done to provide this really important asset to the local community.”