King’s Lynn community raises enough money to fund over 6,000 hours of specialist cancer support as Big C shop celebrates first anniversary

Big C’s charity shop in King’s Lynn is celebrating its first anniversary this month, marking a year of community support that has helped make a real difference to local families affected by cancer.

Since opening its doors on Broad Street in August 2025, the shop has become a valued part of the town centre, welcoming customers, donors and volunteers who have embraced the charity’s mission to support people affected by cancer across Norfolk.

The support of local people has had a remarkable impact. Since opening, purchases and donations through the King’s Lynn shop have raised enough money to fund over 6,000 support and information sessions with Big C’s specialist nurses and support team.

Big C provides free support, information and wellbeing services to anyone affected by cancer, and the charity’s specialist nurses offer practical and emotional support to people diagnosed and their loved ones during some of life’s most challenging moments.

At the heart of the shop’s success are its dedicated volunteers. Over the past year, volunteers have generously given 3,901 hours of their time, supporting day-to-day operations, creating a welcoming shopping experience and helping to raise vital funds for Big C’s services.

A volunteer is standing behind a till desk with a blue wall behind them. In the foreground is a shopper in a black and white jumper looking at an item. There is an orange wall behind her.

Suzanne Comaskey, Retail Operations Manager at Big C said, “It has been an incredible first year for our King’s Lynn shop. Every contribution has made a difference, whether that’s donating items, shopping with us or volunteering time to support the shop.

“We’re particularly proud that the support shown by our King’s Lynn customers has raised enough money to fund over 6,000 support and information sessions since we opened.”

The shop has established itself as a destination for shoppers looking for something special. Alongside a wide range of quality pre-loved items, it features a popular self-service bridal and prom dress section, helping customers find affordable outfits for life’s milestone moments.

Craft enthusiasts have also embraced the shop’s dedicated craft corner, which offers a variety of crafting materials and supplies ready for a new creative project.

A women in a light blue jumper is looking at a wedding dress in her hands. Behind her is a rail full of other white wedding dresses.

The charity shop has also made a positive contribution to sustainability within the local community, giving over 59,000 pre-loved items a second life.

Karen Vincent, Chief Executive at Big C said, “The first year of our King’s Lynn shop has shown just how important local support can be. We’re incredibly grateful to the King’s Lynn community for embracing Big C so warmly and helping us make a meaningful difference to local families affected by cancer.”

To thank customers, supporters and volunteers for helping make the shop’s first year such a success, Big C is inviting the community to join its anniversary celebrations on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August.

Visitors can enjoy a lucky dip, tombola, cake and refreshments, as well as the chance to take part in a “Name the Bear” competition. There will also be a special 50% off sale on dresses and ladies’ trousers during the two-day event.

The celebrations will take place from 9.30am to 4.30pm at the Big C King’s Lynn charity shop, 38 Broad Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1DP.

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