SHOPPERS at a Glazebury store have raised thousands for charity during an unprecedented time.

Fundraising for Once Upon a Smile continued throughout the Covid 19 crisis at Bents Garden and Home.

Bents invited the team from the children’s bereavement charity to visit the centre earlier this month for an 18-month update, announcing a total of £15,000 raised for the charity which provides emotional and practical support for bereaved families.

It also used the opportunity to announce a new virtual fundraising raffle which will run until Monday, November 30 with participants having the opportunity to win prizes such as a Festive High Tea at Bents, Cream Tea for Two and a Bents Gift Card.

In April, Bents made the decision to continue fundraising for Once Upon a Smile for a second consecutive year. This is a first for Bents and a decision which has proved popular especially during the Covid crisis, which has impacted on fundraising due to lockdown and the cancellation of regular charity events.

Recent fundraising for Once Upon a Smile helped the charity to refocus its support network to reach out to children in their own homes, during the period when Sidley House had to close during lockdown.

Sidley House, the charity’s specialist bereavement hub, has now re-opened and is once again welcoming children and families who are benefitting from the specialist services provided by Once Upon a Smile. Bents’ continued fundraising will help fund further improvements and activities to allow bereaved families to express in a fun and safe environment.

For further information about the raffle visit bentsgardenhome on Facebook or simply text BENTS to 70085 to enter.

Texts will cost one standard rate message and supporters will be given the option to make a £2 donation. Entries will close on 31st October with the raffle being drawn on Monday 2nd November.