THE RSPCA hopes that its new store in Royal Wootton Bassett will help raise money for a much-needed animal welfare centre in the area.

The charity shop opened yesterday as part of a five-year plan to bring an RSPCA centre to North Wiltshire, offering veterinary care and animal welfare education.

Richard Clowes, the area manager for RSPCA North Wilts, said: “There is nothing in the area as it is. If an injured animal is picked up it can be taken to a local vets, but if it needs rehoming it would need to be taken to the RSPCA centre in Bath.”

The RSPCA has charity shops across the UK, including North Wiltshire branches in Gorse Hill, Chippenham and Marlborough.

Richard hopes that the addition of the Bassett store will help the branches to raise in excess of £3m for the centre.

He stressed that the money would be used locally, and hoped this would be an incentive for competitive custom.

“We are part of a national charity so people might think that their money gets lost in some big pot of money, but the money spent in store will all stay in the North Wiltshire area,” he said.

“Charity shops these days are more and more competitive.

“It’s nice for customers to know that their money will be staying in their area.

“The RSPCA does a lot for animal welfare and we fight their corner for them.

Some people will come in to look for a bargain, but it’s important to realise that we’re here for a reason – to raise money and give animals the best possible second chance in life.”

A computer donated by a local shop and bookshelves given by a publishing company are among the treasures to be found in-store.

“Everyone has been so supportive. We’d like to thank the local community for their generous donations, and we always welcome more,” said Richard.

You can find the new store at 124B High Street, open Mon-Sat from 9.30am-5pm.

Visit the store’s Facebook page, RSPCA Charity Shop Royal Wootton Bassett, for more information.