It is with deepest regret that the trustees of Rye Community Shop have to announce that we will be closing our doors for the final time at the end of next week. When we opened five years ago it was with a little trepidation that we would be able to pay the rent, let alone help the community, as was our intent.
As announced earlier in the year it was hoped to find new trustees who could continue taking the shop forward but regrettably, we have been unable to find enough trustees to enable this to happen. We three trustees no longer live in Rye, or indeed even East Sussex, and it is logistically impossible for us to continue to manage the shop from such a distance.
As Rye Community Shop will be closing next week there will be a lot of bargains to be had so please call in. Never fear, another charity will be taking over our lease and we hope to be able to announce this once the paperwork has been finalised.
We would like to take this opportunity of thanking all the volunteers past and present who have worked so hard to make the charity the success it has been. We have to date given £85,000 to local groups since we opened, and will be having a final funding round in the new year to dispose of the balance of our fund raising. Watch this space for details.
With very best wishes to all our supporters for a very safe and happy Christmas
Kate Sims, Mike Allinson and Sheila Thomas
Trustees, Rye Community Shop
Image Credits: Nick Forman .
So sorry to hear this sad news. This shop has provided so much for Rye and will be missed.
Thank you to all the Volunteers and Trustees at Rye Community Shop. I know lots of people complain about the number of Charity Shops in towns but they serve an important part of the Community and this one actually gave back to the local area. Such a shame.
Wholeheartedly agree with Lee Bamsey, a wonderful endeavour by local volunteers to help local people. You will be sadly missed. Thank you all for everything you have done for Rye.
Very sad, love this shop. Thanks to everyone involved, the shop has always been a joy to visit and will be missed.
Thank you for all you have done, our guide and new ranger unit has massively benefitted from your generosity and you will be sadly missed
Thank you for the kind comments. We so very much regret having to close, the shop had become a vital part of the community.
I’m sorry to see it close. We’ve always donated items as we know so much is given back to the community and the volunteers are lovely. I know it’s too late now but I didn’t realise you needed trustees. What does it involve? So we can help support the new charity if needed