B&M Opens Second Swindon Store With Help From Local Hero
24 April 2015
B&M has increased its presence in Swindon after opening a second store in the town.
The store, one of more than 400 B&M stores spread throughout the UK, has brought a boost to the town with the creation of 60 new jobs.
A former Homebase, the new B&M Home Store and Garden Centre on Paddington Drive will stock items not available in Bargain stores such as paint, wallpaper, flooring, and an extensive home and living range.
Natalie Hern was chosen to cut the ribbon as part of B&M’s Local Hero award, given by B&M in recognition of a charity or individual who makes a significant contribution to the local community.
She was helped by Mayor of Swindon, Councillor Teresa Page, who gratefully accepted B&M’s invitation to be in attendance at the ceremony.
In addition to cutting the ribbon, Natalie was also given £250 worth of B&M vouchers in recognition of her impact on the local community.
Mrs Hern, a volunteer for local community radio station SWINDON 105.5, has raised nearly £10,000 through tribute nights, which she donated to Prospect Hospice.
The Hospice supports a community of 300,000 people in Swindon, Marlborough, North Wiltshire and the villages of Lechlade and Fairford in Gloucestershire.
They care for people in their own homes, in care homes, at the Great Western Hospital and at the hospice in Wroughton.
In 2013-14, they were able to care for almost 2,000 people, helped by funds raised by individuals like Natalie.
Representatives from Prospect Hospice were on hand throughout the day to bag pack for B&M shoppers; and will be back again on Sunday 26th April for a further round of packing.
The radio station itself is a non-commercial, Not for Profit Company, fully funded by grants, donations and fundraising support.
They provided an outside broadcast on opening day, making the occasion even more of a momentous one.
SWINDON 105.5 will also be bag packing on Saturday 25th April, ensuring the hospice volunteers get their own rest from the toils of packing up shopping.
Dan Whiddington, store manager at B&M Swindon Churchward, said: “We wanted a true VIP to officially open our new store and what better way than to ask customers to nominate those who make a real difference to people’s live in and around Swindon.
“We didn’t judge by age or the type of support, we just wanted someone who goes that extra mile and who we could give something back to for a change.”
