A CHARITY shop is to reopen to customers this week after a major makeover.

The St Cuthbert’s Hospice shop in Chester-le-Street has been closed for refurbishment and will reopen on Friday.

The shop has a long history in the town and first opened its doors to the public 20 years ago raising much-needed funds for the Durham-based hospice, which provides care and support to many residents across the area.

Retail manager Olwyn Hobbs said: “It has taken lots of great teamwork to create this beautiful looking shop and we are so excited for the public to come and take a look around.

“We’ll be offering a prize to the first customer to visit on the opening day.

“We’re so grateful to the community for their continued support over the years so it will be nice to say thank you in this way”

The Front Street shop will open its doors at 10.30am on Friday, selling clothes, shoes, games, ornaments and household goods.

The shop’s usual opening times will be from 9.30am to 4pm from Monday to Saturday.