Second-hand clothing, bric-a-brac, books, and other bargain items now have a new home.

The Barn Thrift Shop has officially opened a new facility next door to the old one yesterday, located on Devon Springs Lane, Devonshire. The facility includes improved displays, drop-off, and better parking.

The Barn, as the single largest fundraiser for the Hospital Auxiliary Board (HAB), has contributed millions of dollars over the years. President of HAB Marijke Peterich expressed her excitement for the improvements. At yesterday's opening she called the new building "a far cry from the old".

Minister of Works and Engineering Alex Scott told The Royal Gazette: "This new building and display is competitive with any retail outlet you can find in Bermuda.

"The Government will be supporting this project in any and every way we can. Apart from this initial lease, we are prepared to look at other ways in which we can help out if the need arises."

The additional land for the new building was leased by Government for one dollar for 21 years.

Mr. Scott added: "The Barn has always been supported by the community. Its success will increase because of these improvements through word of mouth. There's even a children's corner now where kids can sit while their parents bargain shop."

At the opening of the 5000 square foot building, Barn Manager Ann Ross thanked the community for its continued support before urging the public to:"Buy, buy, buy!"

The shop was originally inside a barn owned by Sir Henry and Lady Tucker. In the 1960s, the main source of fundraising for the Hospital was an annual bazaar. The White Elephant's stall became such success that the goods started being sold out of the stall's storage space, a barn, in 1964. The space was used until Sir Tucker's death in 1986.

Following this, a building was constructed on government-owned property across from St. Brendan's in 1986.

Long-time volunteer of 27 years, Jane Jackson told the crowd gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony many stories of the Barn's history. These included Lady Tucker selling her own items when all else ran out, a pump thief, a cow that was discovered tied up to the store, and a 25th anniversary fashion show from clothing sold at the Barn.

The Barn Thrift Store is open on Thursday and Saturday mornings from 9-12. Items may be dropped off on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings also from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.