THE Salvation Army shop in Sale is to close, after nearly 30 years supporting people in need.

But Rachel Steward, community manager for the SA's Sale Church, said there are plans to re-open the outlet once a suitable premises had been found.

She said the shutters have to come down on the School Road shop after a fire risk inspection showed the building needed in the region of £8,000 worth of improvements to meet fire safety requirements.

Rachel said these improvements would have included moving the kitchen to installing fire doors and an integrated fire alarm system.

She said: "The shop has been a lifeline for many local residents in Sale and also to many of the volunteers that have helped to keep the shop running throughout this time.

"Over the years, we have been able to support families and individuals in need and supply free of charge many furniture items, clothing for families - warm coats for school children, even suits for people going for a job.

"You see as the shop is run by the Salvation Army church in Sale, all the proceeds made from the shop are able to be put straight back into the community to help and support people locally.

"The shop has also been able to signpost people to other services that could help them, food banks at the Salvation Army Church and been a place of safety and comfort for those who are lonely or just need to talk to someone.

Many of our customers and friends are saddened by the closure of the shop and we would like to take the opportunity to say Thank you to all of them who have supported the shop and the Charity work that we do.

The Salvation Army shop closes on November 27 and all items will be sold for £1.

* Anyone who can help the Salvation Army find a new shop should contact Rachel Steward on 0161 976 4380.