Local air ambulance superstore cleared for landing

Your local air ambulance has unveiled ambitious plans to transform a former Countrywide Farmers shop into a superstore which will raise vital funds for the lifesaving service.

The charity, which provides leading pre-hospital emergency care across Leicestershire, is due to “land” in Melton Mowbray on 19 November after securing the lease today.

The unit on Scaffold Road, which offers free parking to customers, will undergo a substantial transformation over the next few weeks in turning the space into The Hanger superstore which will sell both new and pre-loved homeware, furniture, clothing, electricals, living, and brand-new white goods.

The superstore will feature a café, open within store hours, offering a wide variety of hot and cold food and drinks and a delicious selection of cakes. In addition, a drive-thru donation station, where people can drop off preloved items, is also provided as well as a collection and delivery service.

Gemma Ingram, Head of Retail for the charity, said: “The success of our store is vital as the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) receives no government funding and relies solely on donations from the public and retail income to keep saving lives. We currently operate 59 shops and this latest venture will be our fourth superstore.

“Shopping in a charity shop is experience shopping,” explained Gemma. “Customers love the thrill of not knowing what they will find, and we want to make that experience last longer by offering a wider choice with a fantastic, safe, and friendly environment.”

The superstore comes off the back of the launch earlier this year of two brand new replacement helicopters for the lifesaving charity as it continues to provide its vital lifesaving service across the county and beyond.

Work is currently underway to get the store ready for the 19 November opening when many local jobs will be created. The charity is also making an appeal for volunteers to support the store.

“We couldn’t operate our stores without the support and dedication of our volunteers so if you are interested then please contact us on 0300 3045 999 and specify Melton superstore as the location for volunteering.,” explained Gemma.

To look at the current store volunteering roles click here

To look at the current cafe volunteering roles click here