East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) has opened a new shop in St Neots, bringing the charity’s retail network to 56 stores across the region.

The Market Square premises opened on Thursday 7 May, becoming the 12th EACH shop in Cambridgeshire. The store joins existing locations in Cherry Hinton, Ely, Huntingdon, March, Soham, St Ives and Whittlesey, as well as four shops within Cambridge itself.

The opening was marked by two local families who have received support from EACH at its Milton hospice, each cutting the ribbon on what they described as a proud and emotional occasion.

Among those invited was Pelin Palfrey, who attended with her daughter Aida, 15, who has CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder and has been receiving care at Milton since January. Also present was Claire Reece, whose son, EACH, supported Hugo from the age of two until his death in November 2024 at the age of 15. Claire spoke of the particular poignancy of the new shop opening in their hometown, noting that Hugo had loved visiting charity shops and had built up an enthusiastic collection of lunchboxes and rucksacks over the years.

Retail area manager Chris Wright said the St Neots location had been a long time in the making. “After a long search to find a suitable site, we’re delighted to be opening our doors to the community in the heart of this beautiful town,” he said, adding that the shop was about far more than retail — “a place where people can come together, support a fantastic cause and make a real difference.”

EACH supports children and families across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk through its three hospices, including Milton near Cambridge.

The shop is now open and the team is actively seeking volunteers. Anyone interested in getting involved can call 01480 597108 or email VolunteerServices@each.org.uk.