A LOCAL charity took centre stage during the opening of a brand new store in Evesham.

The new B&M Homestore and Garden Centre, in Worcester Road, officially opened its doors at 9am on Wednesday morning.

A special ceremony took place at the store, with representatives from the Evesham-based Tracy Sollis Leukaemia Trust charity invited to take part.

The charity was set up by Sue Sollis in memory of her daughter, Tracy, died of acute myeloid leukaemia aged just 15.

Staff at the new store were asked to nominate a 'local hero' to help open the store and chose Mrs Sollis, whose charity promotes and assists in the prevention and relief of sickness, suffering and distress of those with leukaemia.

The opening of the new store, which has created 40 jobs, was also attended by the mayor of Evesham, Cllr Fred Kaler.

The celebrations will continue on Saturday, when there will be a face-painter in the store and a 'Big Prize Bonanza' gameshow, offering customers the chance to win chocolates, vouchers and a slow cooker.

Store manager, Kerry Baker, said: “We’re feeling really positive about the creation of new jobs for local people and feedback on the new store has been great so far.

“We’re also looking forward to the weekend, it’ll be a great way to continue to the fun atmosphere and give our customers a chance to win some big prizes.”