We welcomed customers old and new to the official launch of our new Abacus Furniture Store in Northumberland Road, Shepway, on Tuesday (6 March).

Visitors enjoyed a party atmosphere, with plenty of cake and juice as well as ten per cent off all the pre-owned items in the well-stocked store.

Youngsters were well-catered for, too, with Madison (pictured) and Carter Stephens tucking in to the snacks while mum Stephanie looked for bargains.

The smart new double-fronted shop sells a wide range of pre-owned furniture, homeware and clothes at low prices and aims to help the less well off while extending the lives of things that might otherwise end up in landfill.

Opened in partnership with Golding Homes, the store has proved an instant hit with local shoppers, who have been patiently waiting for us to re-open in this part of our patch.

As well as well-priced homewares aimed at helping people set up home without landing themselves in debt, the store also sells some low cost new items, including bedding, curtains and towels, again designed to suit people starting out in particular.

As our Enterprise Manager Paula Meurs explained: “As well as being a social landlord, West Kent has a strong focus on community, and Abacus is one way in which we try to support our local neighbourhoods.

“The shop extends the life of furniture, clothes and other items that would otherwise be thrown away and allows people on a low income to furnish their homes at much less than high street prices.”

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