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A charity with 18 shops in Kent saw its profits doubling as people flocked to grab a bargain before the national lockdown came into force.
Demelza Hospice Care for Children, which has a hospice based in Sittingbourne , saw a drastic increase in footfall on the final day before they had to close along with other non-essential businesses.
The retail profits earned on Wednesday, November 4, were double that of the same time last year.
Shop manager of the Hythe store, Lucy Vint said: "Our last day of trading before lockdown was our best day ever, despite only allowing four customers in at a time.
"We saw in increase of more than 70% in comparison to last year’s sales.
"We’re just so grateful to everyone who has shopped with us and we look forward to welcoming our valued customers back as soon as we reopen."
The most popular items being snapped up by shoppers included clothes and homeware, with many stocking up on Christmas decorations, ornaments and gifts ready for the impending holiday season.
Despite the strong day of trading, the forced closure is a blow for the charity, which is warning of the devastation to the income of the organisation as a result of coronavirus.
Ashley Henson, director of retail, said: "The COVID-19 crisis has hit every sector hard, including charities.
"In recent months we’ve worked so hard to introduce robust safety measures in our shops and recruit volunteers to support our work, while others were shielding.
"We’ve come so far and it’s been astounding to see so many customers turning out to support us.
"We are naturally very upset to be closing at a time when our stores are doing so well. The impact on income will undoubtedly be massive.
"Fortunately, our vital care continues at our hospices, with urgent short breaks for families in need and online therapies for extremely vulnerable children who haven’t seen beyond their own four walls for months."
Demelza provides vital care and emotional support to children with serious and terminal condition and their loved ones.
The charity is now encouraging customers to show their support by visiting their eBay and Depop stores in lieu of being able to visit the shops in person.
They are also selling Christmas cards via their website.
