FERNE Animal Sanctuary store in Crewkerne has relocated to a new premises in the town centre yesterday (February 12),

The store, previously based on Market Square, moved to Falkland Square, and an official opening will take place on February 23 at 11am.

The launch of Ferne Animal Sanctuary’s new charity store in the town centre aims to improve accessibility for donors and customers alike.

Kevan Hodges, chief executive officer at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, and local MP for Yeovil constituency, Marcus Fysh, will cut the ribbon for the grand opening in Crewkerne’s town centre, on February 23 at 11am.

The pedestrianised shopping centre at Falkland Square has plentiful parking nearby and easy access for Ferne Animal Sanctuary’s valued customers, a key reasoning for the shop move.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary will join neighbouring retailers of Falkland Square, including Waitrose, Costa Coffee, Savers.

The new shop welcomes a modern style and sleek finish whilst offering an increased selection of stock, such as Splimple cards, pet care, and food products, in addition to all existing ranges.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary has traded in Crewkerne for six years, and in that time has built a loyal customer base across the local community, who show continued and passionate support of the shop and sanctuary.

The new store, which opens to the public on February 12, is the charity’s seventh shop to open its doors in Somerset and Devon, reflecting the animal sanctuary’s ambitious growth plans to open 20 stores by 2028.

All profits from the Crewkerne charity shop will directly contribute to Ferne Animal Sanctuary’s efforts in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals.

Kevan Hodges, chief executive officer at Ferne Animal Sanctuary, said: “We are proud to be opening the doors to a new charity shop in the heart of Crewkerne, providing better accessibility and a new contemporary store for our valued donor and customer base.

“We look forward to welcoming new and existing customers to the store and invite the local community to visit for the unveiling of our high-quality collections.

“This store relocation marks another step in our commitment to raise awareness of the sanctuary and fund life-changing chances for rescued animals.

“Each purchase made will support the sanctuary's vital operations, from animal rescue and adoption services to rehabilitation and extensive medical care needed for long-term residents.”

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is a non-government-funded charity that has provided refuge and rehabilitation to its animals for almost 85 years.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary is located in a National Landscape (formerly AONB), nestled in the Blackdown Hills near Chard.

The centre houses and cares for more than 300 animals on its 72-acre site.