PANTO star Su Pollard was the special guest at the official opening of the new Age Concern shop at 80 Worcester Road.

She joined staff members at the Great Malvern store to cut the ribbon and announce their relocation from next door.

Manager Anne Howard said: "The old shop was sort of divided into two which meant it did not look so inviting.

"We can now see from front to back which is rather nice. The reaction has been very favourable.

"People have commented how nice and bright it is in there."

The shop stocks assorted antiques including chin and glass ornaments, and more than 20 volunteers give up some of their time each week to serve customers.

Su chatted with volunteers before making her way next door to the old property, at 78 Worcester Road, for mulled wine and mince pies.

Anne believes the new shop will make customers aware of what they have on sale.

"Now there is nothing stopping them from seeing that we have a terrific range of stuff," she said.