A SALTCOATS charity shop has reopened after being given a makeover.
The Salvation Army store on Dockhead Street had been closed for a short period to allow work to take place.
The shop has been a staple on the Saltcoats high street, having been in operation for 14 years - making this improvement work long overdue.
But it has now opened once again following the refurbishment, with councillor for Saltcoats and Stevenston Jean McClung cutting the ribbon on Thursday, January 5.
The shops interior has been given a new lease of life, with a number of fixtures and fittings added to provide a new interior layout.
The walls have been given a fresh lick of paint, and failing lights have been replaced, and the store was looking bright and vibrant when the Herald paid a visit.
While the shop floor was looking packed with bargains, with fresh stock recently delivered also.
The addition of a new heating system will also be a welcome boost to visitors to the shop, as well as staff - almost all of whom work on a purely voluntary basis.
Councillor McClung told the Herald of her delight at the makeover following her visit on Thursday.
She was joined by her grandchildren Jude and Olivia, who provided assistance on opening the store, alongside its manager Kathleen Moore, and long time volunteer Janet Gallagher.
She said: "It was a privilege to be invited to open the newly refurbished Salvation Army Shop in Dockhead Street.
"It has been a popular and busy store in the town centre for a good number of years. The staff have always been friendly, and the goods on display varied and of good quality.
"The shop was sadly missed during its closure and I am sure local residents will be delighted to see it re-opened, with its new, bright and cheerful interior.
"I have always been full of respect for the work carried out by members of the Salvation Army. Their role in helping the homeless and distressed, and in reuniting 'missing persons' with loved ones is legendary.
"All of the store's profits will contribute to these invaluable activities.
"It was lovely today to have grandchildren, Jude and Olivia, on hand to assist gran in cutting the ribbon.
"They were entranced by the goods on sale and made good use of their pocket money!"
While store manager Kathleen Moore is delighted she, and all volunteers, will be back and working in the new environment.
She said: "All the staff and volunteers are very excited to be back to our new look shop. After 6 long weeks we finally opened our doors again.
"Eager customers, searching out a bargain were pleased to see the newly laid floor, freshly painted walls, the new lighting and comfort heating and cooling system, making the shopping experience much more pleasant.
"Our shop boasts an interesting display of bric-a-rac, toys, books, cd’s, linen and clothing for ladies, gents and kids. We also sell electrical equipment.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers, staff and volunteers for their continued support over the years.
"If anyone is interested in volunteering with us please pop into the shop for more details."
The Salvation Army shop is open on Dockhead Street from 9am until 5pm, Monday to Saturday.
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