You’d be amazed at the vast array of wonderful goodies you could have bought at Sunderland charity shops over the years.
A pink guitar, rude monk, bow ties and a cuddly crocodile are just the start.
We gathered up a selection of Sunderland Echo photo memories from 2004 to 2023 taking in shops across the city.
If you wanted a one-armed doll, a flamenco dress, flip flops or paintings, chances are you could have got it on Wearside.
Have a look at our collection and then get in touch with memories of your best and most unusual buys in one of the city’s charity shops.
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) store, in Blandford Street, is one of around 150 shops nationwide that will be closing within the next two years.
Tell us about your best charity store buys. Email [email protected] to tell us more.
9. Great range of books at PDSA
Books on everything from passion to spooks and Madonna were on sale at the PDSA charity shop in Blandford Street in 2010. It was all on sale during a Tarts and Vicars event at the store. Taking part were staff and volunteers, from left; Ashley Mather, Andrew Hall, Steven Atkinson with Fiona Kelly in front | se
10. Hungry Hippo at Animal Crackers
You could buy Hungry Hippos or Spirograph from Animal Crackers in Grangetown in 2007 - and you would get a warm welcome from Andrea Parkin and Millie the dog as well. | se
11. Cuddly tiger at 4Rs
A cuddly tiger and a potato head toy were just two of the choices you could have made on the opening day at the 4Rs charity shop in Villette Road in Hendon in 2004. | se