TikTok star backs Woodlands Animal Sanctuary as new Ormskirk Hub opens its doors

A TikTok fashion influencer has officially opened Woodlands Animal Sanctuary’s latest Community Hub in Ormskirk – marking another milestone in the charity’s expansion.  

Robyn Elphick, 31, from Rainford, was guest of honour at the grand opening – cutting the ribbon at the new Wheatsheaf Walk premises before welcoming a large crowd inside. 

The launch represents the charity’s fourth retail site since October 2024.

The mum of one, known online as @robynnmia and followed by more than 100,000 people for her eye for preloved fashion and styling, said she was delighted to support a local cause.

“Woodlands is a really lovely charity, and I was so grateful when they reached out to me,” she said.

“I always like a local charity shop – especially one in The Concourse Shopping Centre and Skelmersdale, where I’m from and do most of my shopping. Hopefully, this latest opening encourages more people to shop and support charities.

"I’m not saying never buy anything new, but there’s already so much cool stuff out there. You never know what you’re going to find.”

Woodlands is the largest multispecies sanctuary in West Lancashire and has rehomed 3,300 animals since 2020.

As part of its mission to connect human and animal welfare, the charity has launched Community Hubs in Skelmersdale, Chorley, Southport and now Ormskirk – offering preloved goods to support residents through the Cost of Living Crisis. 

Each hub also features a pet food bank – helping to prevent the trauma of pet abandonment when owners are struggling to meet the cost of basic care needs. 

Proceeds from all four hubs go directly towards the Sanctuary’s daily operating costs, which total around £1,000. 

Trustee Helen Wareham highlighted the growing demand for the charity’s services: “In the last three months alone, we’ve been involved in three separate rescues involving multiple cats at one address.

"The fact that they were still alive when our staff and volunteers arrived is nothing short of a miracle.

"These kittens – and countless other cats rescued – are now thriving, and have been rehomed to a safe and loving environment, where they will live the life they deserve.” 

The new hub is already attracting interest from the local community – including students from nearby Edge Hill University, who have been browsing its media stand for vintage comics, cassette tapes and vinyl. 

Retail Assistant Alison Bradley, who recently left the Civil Service after 30 years, said the location has added to the store’s appeal: “Wheatsheaf Walk feels more like the Shambles in York than a traditional High Street.

"We have had a warm welcome from neighbouring retailers – many of whom specialise in quirky, vintage or preloved items. It’s exciting to be part of a destination shopping centre. I wanted to begin my retail career somewhere I feel genuinely passionate about, and Woodlands is a cause I can truly get behind.” 

The Ormskirk Hub will operate five days a week – Tuesday to Saturday – from 10am to 4.30pm.  

Donations of clothing, furniture and household items are welcome, and volunteer opportunities can be explored on the charity’s website.