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Barrow Clark Furnishers News Page

'HOME SLEEP HOME' FOR HOSPICE HERO MAX

Max Woosey, 'The Boy in the Tent', on his new bed from Barrow Clark Furnishers, with Director Rob Barrow.

Max Woosey will end his epic three-year charity camp-out on April 1st, and thanks to the generosity of a local family business, he will be sleeping in style when he finally comes in from the cold. After raising £750,000 for North Devon Hospice by camping in his garden since the start of Covid lockdowns, when Max returns to his bedroom he will have a brand-new comfy bed to sleep in, courtesy of Barrow Clark Furnishers.

Known to millions as 'The Boy in the Tent,' Max has inspired people of all ages with his fundraising initiative, which was inspired by the care North Devon Hospice gave to his friend and neighbour, Rick Abbot. Max's dedication has captured the hearts and minds of people near and far who have supported his journey, including Chief Scout Bear Grylls, former Prime Minister Boris Johnson and a host of celebrities such as Jonny Wilkinson, Owen Farrell, the Exeter Chiefs, Carol Vorderman, Jeremy Vine, Phillip Scofield, Holly Willoughby, Dermot O'Leary and Little Mix to name a few! Max has even appeared in the iconic Beano magazine, been awarded a gold Blue Peter Badge, won a Pride of Britain award, and was named in the Queen's New Year's Honours List with the British Empire Medal.

Barrow Clark Furnishers, a local family-run business based in Barnstaple, felt moved by Max's efforts and wanted to make sure that his first night back in his bedroom was extra comfortable. Director Rob Barrow explained: "Over the years we have supported the incredible North Devon Hospice whenever we can. We know that the hospice are reliant on local support, however big or small. As a local family we have also been following Max's adventures on the news and you cannot help but be inspired and applaud this young man. We felt that Max has been 'paying it forward' for some time now and it was time that he received his own reward. So, we reached out and we are delighted to be able to bless Max with his own brand new, super comfy storage bed."

Of the gift, Max said: "It was really cool to pick out my own brand-new bed! I've slept for over 1,000 nights on a camping mat, so it might take me a while to get used to a proper bed again, but I am looking forward to it. Thanks so much to Barrow Clark for thinking of me. I loved going round the showroom to try out all the beds and mattresses to find the right one. I know that my first night back in my bedroom will be a comfy one."

Rob Barrow added: "It is our pleasure to give Max a great night's sleep after his incredible efforts over the last three years. We are also proud to be donating two top-end mattresses for the beds in North Devon Hospice's family room. It means that when relatives come to visit their loved ones at the hospice, they will be able to have a comfortable rest. We hope this will be of help at such a difficult time for the families involved."

Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive of North Devon Hospice, added: "Max has been a true hospice hero and we will always be so grateful for all he has achieved. It is so lovely for Barrow Clark to offer this gift to him, as well as offering even more support to the hospice at the same time. Our message to everyone is that they can help Max go out with a bang, with a donation to his fundraising page to celebrate his final camp-out. Right now, North Devon Hospice is supporting more people than ever before. So, if we are to meet this demand and help everyone who needs our care, we need more wonderful support like this. Providing dignity and comfort to local people in their final days, weeks and months is only possible with your support. Donate at justgiving.com/max-woosey1."

Max's final camp-out will take the form of an all-day festival on April 1st in the unique setting of Broomhill Sculpture Garden, just a few miles from his house. It will give everyone the chance to not only enjoy themselves with great music and entertainment, but also show their appreciation to Max and the difference he's made to the lives of those cared for by North Devon Hospice. Tickets are on sale now at https://broomhill-estate.com/events/whats-on/maxs-festival-camp-out/

NEW WHEELS AT BARROW CLARK

Barrow Clark Furnishers are excited to announce two new arrivals thanks to the help of Taw Garages Barnstaple.

As long-standing local family businesses, we have worked together to grow the Barrow Clark delivery fleet with a stunning 22 Plate Ford Transit Luton Van; along with a new Ford Transit Custom Light Goods Vehicle for DownTown Accessories, Barrow Clark’s growing gift and accessory department.

Richard Barrow, Manager of www.DownTownAccessories.com, worked closely with Taw Sales Executive Jon Burnell to select the right specification for both the Barrow Clark and the new DownTown Accessories delivery vehicles. Richard Barrow commented, “for us, it is critical that we have the correct vehicle for the varied roads and terrain we face with deliveries across the country. From small country lanes, to bustling city streets, our vehicles need to be reliable and adaptable. Jon was excellent with his service; very knowledgeable and was able to source us a custom cab to allow us to transport furniture of all sizes”.

Barrow Clark Managing Director Robert Barrow added, “It is so important that local people and local businesses support one another and appreciate each other’s expertise and service. We never take for granted our customers and count it as a privilege as customers trust us with their important purchases. We are very grateful for the high service levels that Mark Brend and the Taw Garage team have provided to us and we are very pleased with our two new vehicles”.

Emma has arrived in North Devon!

Barrow Clark Furnishers are excited to announce the arrival of Emma!

Most people would have already heard of the Emma brand, who combine world-class German engineering, with UK manufacturing to develop the latest advancement in foam and spring technology. Emma offer a unique and impressive infused patented foam, often combined with pocket springs, mattresses and pillows delivering sleep solutions at excellent prices. Emma is the most-sold bed in box brand in the world, and now, the Emma product portfolio has been developed to a new height of quality which Emma believes needs to be shown off in selected retail stores so consumers can really see the benefits and quality of the latest products. Therefore, Emma have approached Barrow Clark Furnishers, based in Bear Street, Barnstaple, to be the North Devon home of their exclusive premium range of Mattresses and Pillows.

The fit between Emma Sleep and Barrow Clark Furnishers is a strong one. Emma Sleep is both UK's most-awarded sleep brand and proud to have regular awards from the likes of Which?, Ideal World, Good Housekeeping, and Expert Review. While Barrow Clark Furnishers, a third generation family business, already has an extensive and established bedroom and bed department, selling famous brands such as ViSpring, Harrison Spinks, Somnus, Hypnos, Silentnight and Tempur, so the addition of Emma is a great fit which will allow local customers to test out and compare the best brands all in one place, with expert advice from a trusted family business.

As part of the joint celebration of the arrival of Emma to Barnstaple and the South West, Barrow Clark Furnishers and Emma have taken the opportunity to give something back to the local community by sponsoring a local rising star Adam Tobin. Twenty year old Adam Tobin, represents Great Britain in TeamGB Men’s Artistic Gymnastics and trains locally in Barnstaple at North Devon’s premium gymnastics academy – Falcons Gymnastics. Adam is an ambitious and talented gymnast who is growing in success after achieving the position of junior European silver medalist, and Devon’s first British Champion only a few years ago in 2018. Emma believes that a good nights sleep on one of their mattresses and pillows will really help with everyday performances and have worked with Barrow Clark to sponsor Adam to ensure that he can rest and recoup using the premium Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress and Emma pillows. When asked about the sponsorship opportunity Adam commented;

“My ambitions are to be the best in Britain and regain the British champ title once again but this time not as a junior but as a senior. The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games is also another goal of mine, and to fight for a spot on the team. This is all part of my plan and journey to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. I am honored to have Emma and Barrow Clark Furnishers play their part in my journey. A great nights sleep is so important to my body for me to be able to perform at this top level”.

It is hoped that as well as this amazing sponsorship opportunity and benefit to Adam assisting in sleep, rest and recovery; It is hoped that indirectly, the sponsorship will benefit the North Devon community, creating more awareness for the excellent team at Falcons and more opportunity to profile the North Devon area. Adam’s success and TeamGB membership with roots from North Devon only helps to inspire the next generation of gymnastics. This is already true to young Bobby Barrow, son of Richard Barrow of Downtown Accessories (Barrow Clark Furnishers Accessory and Homewares Department). Bobby, 9 years, has already been inspired by the achievements of Adam, so much so, Bobby aspires to follow in Adams footsteps and has already recently been recognised as the 2021 South West UK Elite Champion.

With the arrival of the new and exclusive Emma product exclusively to North Devon, Barrow Clark Bedroom Manager, David Wright, believes the in-store Emma collection is a product that should be considered:

“We have been greatly impressed by this new and exclusive in-store Emma product, which now gives people the opportunity to try before they buy, along with peace of mind purchasing through someone they can trust while receiving all the benefits that Emma Sleep UK offers its customers. In collaboration with Emma, we have some fantastic prices and promotions, trial periods to further test out in your own home, 10 year guarantee and a free quick delivery service to your door. Our in store Emma Gallery is informative with display boards explaining the range along with a video demonstrating the benefits of the products. We invite customers new and old to come and visit our family store, to experience our vast Bed and Bedroom Showroom with hundreds of quality bed and mattress options to suit all requirements”.

When asked about the sponsorship between Emma, Barrow Clark and Adam Tobin, David added; “Adam is such a Great Britain talent and credit to North Devon and Falcons Gymnastics and we are very grateful to Emma to work with us to support Adam in offering him a successful award winning sleep solution that will no doubt aid and benefit his development as a TeamGB athlete”.

Contact Barrow Clark Furnishers online, phone, or visit us at the Barnstaple showroom, to find out why individuals from all walks of life in Great Britain today are so excited and already enjoying the benefits of choosing an Emma mattress.

TEAM BARROW CLARK ARE BACK FOR MORE - FUNDRAISING AND A FUN TEAM CHALLENGE

Team Members: Rob, Rich, Freddie, FreddieM

Event: Mission:Unbreakable 2019, 13 Oct 2019.

Event Preview: https://youtu.be/Y2x9CL7KT0I

In 2018 Team: Barrow Clark took part in their first Mission: Unbreakable fun fundraising event in support of the North Devon Hospice. Now with new recruits this year they were back for more!

Mission: Unbreakable redefines the traditional 'mud run' obstacle course. That's because the course has been designed with the help of Commandos from 24 Engineer Regiment, based at RMB Chivenor, who were also spread around the course providing plenty of encouragement.

A commando-style course filled with real challenges. Tested by mud, fire, water, ice and a range of assault course obstacles conquered in order to call yourself an 'Unbreakable'.

This year added a host of BRAND NEW OBSTACLES to the course, including the fearsome Travelator, which was the final test for our Team’s weary legs before crossing the finish line.

We are happy to say – all the Team made it, raised money for this great charity and had a great time!

North Devon Hospice do an AMAZING job – you can also join us in helping this LOCAL charity if you wish by sponsoring the Barrow Clark team so we can continue to donate to this awesome charity. Thank you.
Click here for our JustGiving Link.

Golden Jubilee Grand Prize Winners - Luxury 2-Night Stay with a Sea View Room with Two Course Dinner at The Woolacombe Bay Hotel

Barrow Clark Furnishers have this past September celebrated our Golden Jubilee 50th Anniversary. Est. 1965. As part of these celebrations our existing loyal and also new customers were entered into a Prize Draw with amazing prizes.

Further Prize Draw winners to be announced soon - watch this space on our Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/barrow.clark

Woolacombe Bay Hotel is a luxury four star hotel in one of the most enviable positions in England. Overlooking one of the finest beaches in Europe, they have 64 glorious bedrooms, six acres of landscaped grounds, and direct access to three miles of beautiful, golden sands.

Life here combines the timeless elegance of days gone by, with all of the special touches that you would expect from a luxury four star hotel. Woolacombe Bay hotel has it all…everything you could wish for from a luxury hotel in North Devon.

www.woolacombe-bay-hotel.co.uk

www.barrowclark.com

Barrow Clark Furnishers Golden Jubilee Anniversary

Furnishing experts for 50 years. Est. 1965

North Devon Gazette, Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Barrow Clark Furnishers have this past September celebrated our Golden Jubilee 50th Anniversary. Est. 1965.

As part of these celebrations we had a special week of unique promotions throughout the shoowroom for one week and our existing loyal and also new customers were entered into a Prize Draw with amazing local prizes to be won.

Read more by following this link to article by Tony Gussin: http://edition.pagesuite-professional.co.uk//launch.aspx?eid=10277893-0d4a-4833-8350-5fc90a8cd64b

Buckland Brewer Princess Cat-astrophe Avoided

A Cat has had a lucky escape thanks to the quick thinking and caring actions of a local delivery team.

Rich and Freddie Barrow of Barrow Clark Furnishers Barnstaple, were undertaking a furniture delivery in Buckland Brewer when unknown to them, 'Princess', a 5 year old tabby cat, was more than a little curious and ventured into the opened Barrow Clark delivery van. Rich and Freddie Barrow finished their delivery to Princess’s neighbour in Buckland Brewer, locked up the van and drove nearly 5 miles to their next delivery in Torrington New Street.

Freddie Barrow had the shock of his life as he unlocked the van and unrolled the van shutter doors to see Princess leap out, run straight into Torrington New Street, darting everywhere as she did not know where she was. Cars in Torrington slowed down and after some commotion Rich Barrow then calmly coaxed Princess over to him and he managed to pick the cat up and put her in the front cab, safe from passing traffic. The Barrow Clark team noted Princess had a collar on and realised that their new van mascot was from the neighbour of their previous delivery back in Buckland Brewer!

After finishing their Torrington delivery, Rich and Freddie drove Princess back to Buckland Brewer; and after her 10mile round trip, Princess was back in her familiar surroundings!

Princesses owner Kat Harvey of Tuckers Park Buckland Brewer commented, "I was at work and suddenly saw all these missed calls on my phone and then a text message from the drivers telling me what had happened to Princess! I am so grateful that they returned her safely. It is nice to know that people do care for animals especially when so many go missing. I am very grateful to both Rich and Freddie”.

Rich Barrow commented, "Most people have a dog in their car or van, but for that morning we had a cat!” Joking aside, we are just pleased that Princess is ok and home safe”.

Barrow Clark feature in Luxurious coastal homes and country houses Exclusive Property supplement

North Devon Journal, Thursday, September 18, 2014

This week Barrow Clark featured in a Luxurious coastal homes and country houses feature in the new North Devon Journal Exclusive Property supplement.

In this article titled 'What to consider when furnishing your home', Rob Barrow discusses Top Tips to consider when furnishing a property. These include, How to browse and speak to a passionate sales team, planning ahead, being open minded, and to not be afraid to mix styles.

Read more by following this link:
http://issuu.com/dawnborg/docs/exclusiveproperty

Barrow Clark Furnishers revive Braunton football sponsorship

North Devon Journal, October 17, 2013

Barrow Clark Furnishers have proudly sponsored Braunton Football Club by presenting the current men’s first team with a brand new football kit, all thanks to the lasting friendship and history between the Barrow, Clark and Maynard families and their ties to the great Braunton Village.

Sparked from former Braunton Goalkeeper Chris Egner’s facebook post of a youth team photograph some 21years ago which was sponsored by Barrow Clark Furnishers with current Director featured as a player. Mark Harris, Braunton FC First Team Manager, spoke with Rob Barrow and gave the opportunity for Barrow Clark to sponsor the club.

With Kevin Maynard’s, Barrow Clark Furnishers Carpet and Flooring Manager, two nephews Scott and Ross Maynard playing in today’s team who also featured in the original Barrow Clark sponsored team some 21years ago, coupled together with the even longer history in the 1950s with former Managing Director Ron Clark (Nobby Clark), it made perfect sense for the partnership to be reintroduced.
Rob Barrow of Barrow Clark Furnishers Commented; “Ron (Nobby) Clark and his son Garry Clark played football for Braunton FC, Kevin’s brother Jeff Maynard also played for the team along with being instrumental in helping create Braunton’s current facilities; my father Chris Barrow sponsored the club when based in Braunton, and I personally have played many seasons for the club. Braunton FC and the Village itself are close to our family and business over generations.
Barrow Clark Furnishers originated from Braunton and it just felt right giving something back to the club that does so much for so many families”.

Family firm earns association accolade

North Devon Journal, Thursday, October 11, 2012

Barnstaple store Barrow Clark Furnishers, a third-generation family business based in Bear Street, has won first place in its category in the annual Association of Independent Stores (AIS) awards.

AIS is the largest non-food buying group I the UK and enables independent businesses to source products and services in the same way as multiple store groups.

Each year the AIS asks its 171 suppliers to the rate independent stores against strict criteria of business processes and standards. In 2010 Barrow Clark Furnishers was rated third in its category, but in 2012 was rated first.

"It was a pleasant surprise to come third place nationally two years ago, but to now be awarded first place is truly an honour" said director Rob Barrow. "On behalf of the family and the Barrow Clark team, I would like to thank all our customer and friends for their continued custom and support."

An Early Christmas Present for North Devon Hospice

Barrow Clark Furnishers, in partnership with Joynson Holland Furniture, have brought some early Christmas cheer with the gift of a luxury rise and recline electric chair to North Devon Hospice.

The chair will be used in the Day Hospice lounge, to allow patients to relax in comfort and also get up with ease. Day Hospice nurse, Maggie Berry, said: “This is a really generous gift, and certainly adds to the comfortable atmosphere that we try to create at Day Hospice. Patients come and spend the day with us and they really enjoy the welcoming environment we provide. They go home at the end of the day often feeling a whole lot better than when they arrived. We are very grateful for this gift, and I know it will get a great deal of use.”

Robert Barrow of Barrow Clark Complete Furnishers said: “We are delighted to be donating a chair to such a wonderful, caring and essential cause. North Devon Hospice is a fantastic charity which has blessed so many people. Lives have been touched because of the dedication, love and care of the hospice team and this is just a small contribution which we hope will help patients and their families”.

The chair, produced by Joynson Holland, has been donated as part of a nationwide scheme, where 100 chairs will be distributed to charities across the country. It is of the highest quality to offer maximum benefit, as Managing Director of Joynson Holland, Mark Symes, explained. “Our products have been designed to bring maximum comfort and assistance at affordable prices, and are available from Barrow Clark Furnishers, who are a local and trusted retailer”, he said.
Ali Hunt, North Devon Hospice’s Head of Fundraising, said that gifts to the hospice come in all shapes and sizes, and are all very much appreciated. “We need the support of the community in many different ways in order to provide our essential services. Whether that is fundraising efforts, volunteering your time, or even providing generous gifts like this from Barrow Clark. The chair will be a fantastic addition to our Day Hospice lounge and will be used by patients every week.”

People in the photo: Kevin Maynard, Barrow Clark Carpet & Flooring Manager, Rob Barrow, the chair and Neal Lancaster, Caretaker from North Devon Hospice

Barrow Clark Furnishers Announce £1000 prize-winner!

Despite the economic times, Barrow Clark Furnishers have given away £1000 worth of free furniture after the stores recent and successful sale.

Mr & Mrs Davis from Barnstaple were picked at random from approximately a thousand entries of customers who made the effort to come to Barrow Clark’s first two sale days.

Mr Davis commented, “I couldn’t believe it when I had the call from Mr Barrow! We never seem to win draws, but here we’re with £1000 worth of furniture!”

Barrow Clark Furnishers, a family owned and run store since the mid 1960’s, held a furniture disposal sale to make way for new displays.

Robert Barrow, a Company Director, commented, “The £1000 shopping spree was a way of us thanking our customers for their loyalty and ongoing support. We were delighted with customer response to our event and thank all those who attended”.

AIS Member of the Year - third place

Barrow Clark Furnishers, has fought off stiff competition to pick up third place in their furniture category in the Association of Independent Stores (AIS) Annual Member of the Year Award. Barrow Clark Furnishers were voted third place nationally by their suppliers who mark them on a number of strict criteria.

Barrow Clark Furnishers are a third generation family business based in Bear Street, Barnstaple. Originally based in Braunton during the Mid 1960’s, Barrow Clark supplies middle, to top-end furniture including; beds, sofas, chairs, dining & bedroom furniture, carpets/flooring, curtains and much more.

Rob Barrow, a Director of Barrow Clark Furnishers commented; “To be awarded Third place Member of the Year 2010 in our furniture category is a fantastic achievement and we thank all our customers for their continued support and custom along with all our staff for their care and attention. To be honest, the Award came completely out of the blue! We were not trying to win an award which makes it even more special”.

AIS is the largest non food buying group in the country and allows Independent businesses such as Barrow Clark, to source products and services on a scale as if they were a national multiple store. Rob Barrow explained; “AIS is fantastic for both the consumer and the retailer. Barrow Clark benefit from remaining a completely independent business, owned and run by our family, while at the same time being able to join with other businesses to negotiate with manufacturers and suppliers to create and supply the right products at the right price”.
The AIS Award recognises the level and quality of service along with the professionalism delivered by members and Barrow Clark Furnishers were given the vote by the 150 strong supplier base. Euan Kelway-Bamber Merchandise Director at AIS presented the award and commented, “I am delighted to present this award to Barrow Clark Furnishers, as it reflects the very high esteem with which they are held by their suppliers and the importance Barrow Clark place on establishing strong, loyal and trusting relationships. By looking after their suppliers, they will surely look after Barrow Clark and enable them to meet the promises that they make to their customers. Our congratulations to the Barrow Clark team".

Rob Barrow added, “We are really touched to receive such an accolade. We are passionate about furniture and look to work with our suppliers to deliver customers the quality they expect and it is an honour to be recognised in doing this”.

Euan Kelway-Bamber went on to add, “To achieve this award illustrates just how service orientated and professional Barrow Clark continues to be”.

Thank you Chris - you've turned my life around

North Devon Journal, Thursday, December 23, 2010

A Barnstaple man who was living rough during rough during some of the coldest weather for a generation has been saved by a kindly benefactor. Lee Stone, 20, said he slept for the two weeks in a freezing hut on the Tarka Trail between Barnstaple and Bickington with just a blanket for warmth. He was rescued by local man Chris Barrow, who gave Lee shelter, food – and hope.

"It was horrible. I found it very hard to sleep because I was shivering so much" Lee told the Journal. "I barely ate. I visited several cafes to ask for the occasional glass of water but they soon got annoyed with me and told me to get lost. After two weeks of living like this I was very weak and felt sick all the time."

One morning, Chris, the director of Barrow Clark furniture shop in Bear Street, walked by.

Lee said: "Chris lives in a house near the hut where I was sleeping and walks his dogs along the cycle path most morning. He took an interest in me and asked me how I’d got into this situation. He took me in for four days and gave me a bed and plenty of food. He was extremely kind to me."

Chris said: "Lee had clearly has a rough time and was in a very vulnerable state. As a Christian I believe you should help people in need. Living so near to the Tarka Trail I have come across quite a few homeless people seeking shelter there and have built up a list of contacts who offer assistance."

Chris helped Lee find temporary accommodation at the Freedom Centre in Barnstaple, a Christian social project. He also put Lee in touch with housing officers at North Devon Council, who secured him a room in a house share and found him a cleaning job at Chivenor.

Lee said: "I’ve gone from having nothing to having accommodation and a job in a matter of days. I never could have done this without the kind help of Chris and I want to say a massive thank you to him. He has turned my life around."

"I would also like to thank the staff at North Devon Council and Sodexo for their belief in me."

Chris added: "Lee is a thoroughly pleasant and genuine lad. It was a pleasure to offer him a helping hand. I’d like to think anyone would have done the same."