Money From Used Toys

This is the story of Mr Jim Clover, who has now been retired over

10 years, and his wife, Mary.  They never had children of their

own, but are totally devoted to each other.

We let Mrs. Clover tell their story.

We live in a relatively small town in Shropshire and are operating

an interesting business from our home which provides not only many

hours of happiness, but also, frankly, the extra money we need to

supplement our state benefits.

We own what is known, for some miles around, as "KUTS", the

Kiddies Used Toy Shop!

We go to all rummage sales, garage sales, car boot sales and

second hand furniture shops looking for good used toys and

playground equipment which can be repaired and sold in the little

shop which we have set up in a storage area next to our little

home.

Additionally, whenever we run a little short of stock, a small ad

is run in the "Wanted" column of the local newspaper to replenish

supplies.

As we've increased our area over the years, we also receive

unwanted, often slightly damaged toys as donations, too.

My husband, now known affectionately to everyone around as Grandpa

Clover, makes any repairs to such things as bicycles, tricycles,

kiddies cars, rocking horses, children’s furniture along with

swings and slides for a playground; while I (for some reason known

as "Auntie" Mary) run the doll and stuffed toy department.

I make new dolls clothes and I also wash, iron and men the old

ones, as the need may be, and sew up teddy bear's bursting

insides, and also I help Grandad Clover by repainting many of the

items he repairs.

Between us, we are doing quite good business as well as bringing

enormous happiness to the children of parents who could not

possibly afford to buy such toys if they were new.

As you can imagine, at Christmas time we have difficulty in

actually meeting the demand, although we are busy throughout the

year with birthdays, treats, etc.

We are both saddened, however, by the number of children now

growing up with just one parent - saddened when we remember them

coming to us, as couples, for their new born baby.

We only open two days a week, which is quite sufficient, but never

turn anyone away if they call at other times.

Although we don't make a fortune by any means (although we always

spend January in Spain with the Christmas profits), we are able to

have just those little extras that so many people of our age can't

possibly afford.

There's not many businesses that you can start with just a few

pounds - earn a bit of money, and enjoy yourselves at the same

time!