A SHOP'S owners have vowed to pay tribute to a "great supporter" after a double blow.

Amaze was hit by the death of Bluebell Inn quizmaster Steve Rowan, who raised almost £30,000 for charities, and then discovered its Belle Vue Terrace home would be put up for sale.

But co-founder Chris Lee said the charity store, which helps the homeless and disadvantaged in Malvern, has now secured a lease at nearby 32 Church Street and been offered a new community hub space that is set to be dedicated to Steve.

Chris said: "The week before Christmas was probably the worst week in the history of Amaze. But out of disaster came hope and new opportunities.

"We had news of the sudden death of our close friend and great supporter Steve. We were still trying to come to terms with that when our landlord announced he was retiring and putting the shop up for sale.

"But a call to our supporters produced some amazing results."

AMT Commercial secured Amaze the Church Street shop lease and a landlord offered Chris another location on Belle Vue Terrace.

Chris continued: "We had gone from no shop to two in as many days.

"Our friend Steve was passionate about helping the disadvantaged in the community so it seemed only appropriate we should do something special to honour his memory.

"The (Belle Vue Terrace) building will offer a safe haven for people to enjoy warmth and socialise as well as experience a wide range of amazing local art.

"We are still searching for an apt name along the lines of Steve Rowan’s Warm Welcome which seems to cover all the bases."

Amaze, which is working with Malvern Hills District Council, Malvern Civic Society and local artists, will have a small space at the hub with plans to open by late February.

Anyone interested in getting involved can call Chris on 07985 693393.

He said: "Most amazingly the Bluebell Inn has committed a generous amount each month towards the overheads in tribute to Steve’s memory."

Meanwhile, the new shop is set for early next month and Chris added: "It’s far bigger and will carry an amazing range of newly-created items, including the soon-to-be-published fourth book of puns!

"This increase in space is vital to continue the work we do. Last year we helped six people to rebuild their lives and, with national inflationary pressures growing, we are expecting to help even more individuals this year."