Money From Used Toys

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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, childrens 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!