A NEW Bolton Hospice charity shop has opened its doors in the town centre.

The first customers through the door were treated to a glass of Bucks Fizz and chocolates, with Cllr Linda Thomas, the Mayor of Bolton, joining the festivities to cut the red ribbon to officially open the store.

The shop, located at 32 Newport Street, is one of 10 charity shops run by the hospice across Bolton.

The shops sell donated items, such as clothing, accessories, good quality bric-a-brac, toys and games, as well as their popular range of Christmas cards and calendars.

The aim of the charity shops is to provide a regular and sustainable source of income that supports the work of the hospice, whilst also recycling a wide range of goods to help protect the environment.

Michele Pidd, shop manager, said:“We have all been so excited to open our new town centre shop. There has been a buzz on the precinct for many months with passers-by looking in, awaiting our anticipated opening!

“We had a fabulous opening day, with the Mayor of Bolton kindly coming along to open the shop and cutting the ribbon. The Mayor is a fabulous supporter of the hospice and was a huge hit on the day, even joining us for a celebratory Buck Fizz! We are in a prime spot in the town centre and we cannot wait to welcome more customers.”