The return of the local Post Office has been met with relief from locals as it opens at EUROSPAR Gilford, bringing even more essential services under one roof.
Since opening back in October 2024, EUROSPAR Gilford has brought essential community and commuter services back to the area, including fuel, coffee-to-go and a one-stop-shop supermarket which also brought jobs for 29 people.
Now, the Post Office has officially reopened within the store, under the management of Ashleigh Shaw, providing services from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.
Ashleigh commented; “It is fantastic to have the Post Office back open in the town. We are offering all the usual essential services from postage to collections and returns, plus everyday banking, bill payments and of course, travel money services.
“We hope the opening brings back those services that the local community has been missing in recent months, and it is even better that we are accessible with car parking available on site, plus complemented by a host of other everyday services and products within the EUROSPAR store itself.”
Cecilia Maginn who owned the Centra store says they’re delighted the retailer has stepped in to ensure their local shoppers still have Post Office services; “It was a difficult decision to close our doors, especially when the town relies so heavily on essential services such as the Post Office. The relocation of the Post Office ensures our local shoppers and members of the wider community have good access to such services and we wish the team all the best for the future.”
Post Office at EUROSPAR Gilford joins a host of essentials and local grocery suppliers, own-brand fresh ranges for tonight’s tea, fresh meat products from J Hutton & Son’s Butchers, Barista Bar coffee to go, Delish food-to-go serving hot breakfast and lunch throughout the day, plus a six-pump fuel forecourt with air, vacuum and parking facilities, including bp pulse EV-charging point.
Ever since plans were announced for the “much needed” store, the team has been hugely engaged with the local community, and are continuing their commitment to build long-term, meaningful relationships with the town’s people, places, charities and organisations.
Changing Lives NI, a local mental health and associated addiction charity based in the County Down village, has been a key partner to the EUROSPAR Gilford store. They have donated £647.84 to the charity by holding fundraising events in support, including a sky dive and coffee mornings, which have helped the charity continue to run their vital services for the area.
As part of their support for other local charities including Action Mental Health, NI Chest, Heart and Stroke and Guide Dogs NI the store has raised over £5,000, which will go a long way to supporting the work of these fantastic charities. The team also donated EUROSPAR vouchers to Country Charm in support of the vital work of Newry Hospice.
Community is at the core of everything the store does locally says Stacey Hebborn, the store’s community representative;
“The community of Gilford do so much for each other, and we are delighted to be able to help support those organisations and groups that are important to our neighbours. We have engaged with Gilford Toddler Group and Gilford Boxing Club who have received several donations of stock to support the vital work they do within the community, while sponsoring Dunbarton Bowling Club, Gilford Crusaders Football Club and Tullylish GAC with on-pitch signage.
“We are delighted to sponsor Gilford Crusaders. The new youth team has been a brilliant outlet for local children to enjoy the game and be part of a team. We love seeing the kids out and about in the community with their new branded kits.”
The store team is also proud to support local primary schools, St John’s Primary School and Gilford Primary School through various activities including colouring-in competitions and hamper donations including a £50 voucher, as well as support for their school sports days.
Gilford Primary School completed an in-store fundraising collection to help raise vital funds that will go towards their Sensory Garden. Stacey was also delighted to support St John’s Primary School’s Walk and Talk event, promoting health and wellbeing within the school community.
The store team were delighted to partner with Gilford primary and carry out a litter pick, working together to promote environmental responsibility and pride in their local community.
EUROSPAR Gilford is also a drop off point for Gilford Presbyterian Church Kids Clothing Bank. A donation of over 840 items of clothing plus nappies, baby wipes and washing powder has been donated to help their services.
To keep up to date with fundraising events, the latest value deals, team news and new products available in-store, follow EUROSPAR Gilford on Facebook.
EUROSPAR Gilford is located on the Banbridge Road and is open from 7am – 11pm, seven days a week.
