Despite the CCBC’s efforts to have the charity branding removed, residents around Caerphilly town centre would have noticed, over the course of the week, banners, pallets and even toys placed on various street corners promoting a “new charity shop” or “second hand shop”.
Members of our group and public photographed Carrie Anne Ridsdale, also known as Jayne Anne Carrie Anne Ridsdale Price, placing signage at a street corner. This follows an earlier incident in which a headboard was positioned at the end of Pentrebane Street advertising what was presented as a charity store; she later claimed the item had been stolen and placed there by “Sherlock”. The operation is not a registered charity shop, raising compliance concerns.
Separately, eviction notices have been served at the Pontypool premises. The site is currently being monitored by fire marshals due to a leak that has remained unresolved for over a year, presenting a clear safety hazard to neighbouring businesses and members of the public.
Following her reported arrest and the apparent use of an alias, “Hannah”, the outlook for Jayne’s Baby Bank appears increasingly uncertain, particularly as the stores are now closed to the public and operate on a pre-booked entry basis of £3–£5. Claims that the premises are no longer being promoted as a charity shop are further called into question after she was observed at a Newport open-air car boot sale selling items alongside a charity-branded banner and cash collection bucket.
It is no longer a question of if it will come to an end, but when. In the meantime, further public appeals and fundraising activity are expected.
– Sherlock