A woman from Bangor, Wales, made a surprising discovery while shopping at a local charity shop. On February 3, 2024, Sharon Owen purchased a red purse for just 50p at the Koala North West Charity Shop in Claughton Village. What she found tucked inside the purse has led her on a quest to reconnect a photograph with its original owner.
Initially seeking a practical item for her daughter, Owen was thrilled to find a stylish Julian Macdonald purse. However, her excitement turned into curiosity and concern when she discovered an old passport photograph of a “handsome” gentleman hidden in one of its compartments. Recognizing the potential sentimental value of the photo, she has reached out to the public for help in locating the man’s family.
Owen, who recently experienced the loss of her father, expressed her emotional connection to the photograph. “As soon as I saw the photo, I thought it must have some form of sentimental value,” she shared. “He must be someone’s husband or father, and after losing my father myself, I would love to get the photo back to the owner.”
The photograph, which has no identifying information on the back, has sparked Owen’s determination to reunite it with its family. “There’s nothing written on the back of it. It’s a lovely photo; he is a handsome chap, and I know if it was my dad, I would be so happy to have the photo back,” she explained. “You don’t have many photos like this of people these days. Seeing it pulled on my heartstrings a little bit.”
Owen’s discovery highlights the often-overlooked treasures found in second-hand shops. The Koala North shop, known for its affordable items and community support, has been a favorite of Owen’s family. “My daughter is going to school and needed a big purse. For 50p, I thought it was ideal; it’s perfect,” she noted.
The emotional weight of the photograph has driven Owen to take action, hoping that social media and community outreach will assist in her mission. “I just happened to see it in there,” she remarked about the photo, emphasizing her commitment to returning it to its rightful owner. The story serves as a reminder of the personal connections that can exist even in the simplest of purchases.
As she continues her search, Owen’s heartfelt appeal resonates with the community. Anyone with information about the photograph or its owner is encouraged to reach out, as she strives to bring closure to the story behind the picture.
