Niall Daly, chariman of the Bord of Slí Eile and Jess Angland, CEO.
The opening of Slí Eile’s Vintage Shop in Charleville finally arrived on Thursday last.
This was a long-awaited event. People were eager to get a look at the newly refurbished and beautifully decorated shop in the town that was two years in the planning process. During the past market season, the Vintage shop was located in the courtyard of Burton Park, with sales possible only on market days. Belinda Sharpe, fundraiser with the organisation, was determined to make sales available all year round. She set out to paint and decorate the newly rented premises in Charleville. She has worked within the organisation for some years and has a real talent for decorating and has an innate artistic flair. Her hard work and patience paid off handsomely on Thursday last when the Vintage Shop finally opened its doors to the public. People gathered all day and sales were accumulating all during the opening hours, and even beyond, such is Belinda’s dedication to her work. Many of the volunteers of Slí Eile were there to lend a helping hand and offer encouragement. The quality of the goods for sale was exquisite, and many purchased gifts for Christmas. From furniture to antiques, jewellery to chinaware and pottery, the shop has it all.
There’s a real value in buying vintage items. Furniture that has stood the test of time will continue to do so. Decorative items too have real value, some even antique. Buying vintage is environmentally beneficial since products are kept out of landfill. But most of all, perhaps, in the case of the Vintage Shop, buyers are supporting Ireland’s only residential Mental Health charity. The shop is looking for donations of furniture (except couches as the room is limited) and other items. Unfortunately, it cannot take books, clothes, or toys. But if anyone is having a clear-out, please remember this worthy cause!
Don’t forget to call to the amazing Slí Eile Christmas Market on Saturday next, December 2nd at Burton Park, Churchtown between 10am and 5pm. It promises to be amazing!