A CHARITY shop in Farnworth is being forced to sell off its stock — just six moths after opening.

The newly-opened Mencap store on Higher Market Street only started trading in April but is preparing to close for good in just over a week.

Bolton's Mencap branch was allowed to use the premises rent free through Centric Community Projects, which provides space free of charge to charities and non profit organisations.

But a private tenant has now come forward to take over the premises, meaning Mencap will have to move out.

With plenty of good donations left on the shelf, the charity are hoping to clear it all at a Charity Shop Jumble Sale in store on Thursday.

Bolton Mencap project manager Amy Wilding said she was sad to see the shop closing down.

She said: "It has been a bit of a short-run but it was enjoyable while we were there and quite successful.

"We received a lot of donation as well as the Black Horse, the pub opposite the shop, raising £300 for for us in our first month.

"We have really enjoyed it so it's a great shame to close down."

The store has been managed by Mencap volunteer Tracey Cooke alongside young Mencap students.

They hope the shop's popularity will see customers return on September 17 for the jumble sale starting at 5.30pm.

Any stock not sold will remain on sale up until the store closes on Tuesday, September 22.

The charity hopes to return to Farnworth in the near future and is working with Centric to find a suitable property.