A charity shop manager is retiring from the role after serving her community for more than 15 years.
Rosie Rose joined Woodbridge’s Salvation Army shop shortly after it opened in October 2001.
She was given a celebratory send-off by volunteers, neighbouring businesses in Gobbitts Yard, and by the mayor, Clare Perkins.
The Salvation Army has decided not to renew its lease, but said it would welcome financially viable opportunities to open another charity shop in the area.
Monday marked the final day of trading at the shop, where much of the remaining stock will be transferred to the church and community centre in New Street – the venue for weekly sales.
Major Febe Pipe and her husband, Russell, are also retiring as Salvation Army officers after eight years. An official welcome for the new corps officer, Major Alan Hill, takes place on Sunday.
Mrs Pipe said: “We’re very thankful to Rosie for all her work over so many years. She has done an excellent job and has been great to work with.”
A Salvation Army spokeswoman said: “After great consideration we have made the difficult decision not to renew the lease on our charity shop in Gobbitts Yard.
“Unfortunately, the shop was no longer financially viable and, due to the lease coming to an end, and the retirement of our shop manager, we felt it was the right time to close.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank our shop manager, Rosie, who has served the local community for the last 15 years – joining the team shortly after we opened in October 2001.
“The remaining stock will be brought to our church and community centre in New Street, and will be sold at our weekly tabletop sale and coffee morning, on Thursdays, from 9am. Clothing will also be offered to people who attend our community meal and are in need of emergency food parcels.
“We would be delighted if a financially viable opportunity arises to open a charity shop in the area again. Meanwhile, we continue to be committed to serving local people and offer a listening ear, compassionate support and practical help.”
The Salvation Army also runs a parent and toddler group, social clubs for older people, an after-school club, and holds church services every Sunday in Woodbridge.
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