Beloved Teddington charity shop Mary's Living and Giving has reached a landmark achievement today (April 20th) as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.

Mary's has become one of Teddington's favourite shops over the years due to its fabulous pre-loved goods, most of which are donated by members of the town's community.

It's reputation has drawn the attention of national news outlets such as The Telegraph due to its army of warm and welcoming volunteers and high-end clothes on offer. Typically women's lines, but also a host of men and children's items plus sustainability-oriented products from the Mary's Living and Giving Shop range.

The popular charity shop is run by UK charity Save the Children, which ensures children in the UK and around the world are safe, healthy and provided with education.

Mary's Living and Giving celebrates its 10th anniversary today

To date, the charity has helped 4.5 million children across the world get the medicine, healthy food and education they need as well as gaining over 600,000 supporters from families, nurses and teachers and a host of other workers.

Grace Palmieri has volunteered at Mary's for nine of its 10 years on the high street.

The local resident, who has lived in Teddington for 20 years, told Nub News she first decided to get involved with Mary's as she had always been struck by the wonderful range of clothes made available and the welcoming, friendly nature of managers and volunteers.

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As time went on, Grace had a stronger sense of wanting to do something within her Teddington community and to help those in need, and with the Teddington charity shop supporting a vital cause in the UK and oversees, she found the perfect fit.

Revealing what she loves most about working for Mary's Living and Giving, Grace told Teddington Nub News: "The people, without doubt! The other volunteers in the team of around 30 are fantastic. Every single person brings their own life experience, interests and enthusiasm - they are a friendly, warm and supportive group. 

"Also our customers, their donations and regular visits to find treasures mean we get to know them and so appreciate their help for the charity. I enjoy the feeling that I am making a difference to children's lives who need help most.

"Mary's Living & Giving in Teddington is regularly the top-selling Save the Children shop in the country and it is our team of volunteers who make that happen."

Mary's thank you message to the Teddington community

Vanada Beli, store manager at Mary's added: "Mary's at Teddington has become part of Teddington's community.  I am so proud of the volunteers here and want to say a big thank you to all those who donate to us, buy from us and who just pop in for a browse and chat.  It is great to celebrate ten years with our friends."

As the team celebrates its landmark birthday today, Nub News extends its congratulations to one of the many wonderful businesses that make the area such a special place to live, shop and visit.

Happy birthday Mary's!

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