SHOPPERS crowded into the British Heart Foundation’s new Huntingdon store for its long-awaited opening on Tuesday (September 18).

The building had been empty since 2009, when Marks & Spencer closed its Simply Food store.

Area manager, Jacqui Whitehall, described the Huntingdon shop as a “momentous store” that would prove “really popular in the town.

“As store openings go, this one has been hugely successful,” Ms Whitehall said.

“We have been collecting stock for eight months and the generosity of people never ceases to astound us. Everything you see in store has been donated by the general public.”

The charity will collect items for free but may apply a charge for its house clearance service.

Ms Whitehall also said the charity had to turn volunteers away earlier in the year because they were unsure about when they would open - but has now encouraged them to return to offer their services if still available.

CONTACT: Those with unwanted furniture and electrical items to donate should call the BHF on 0844 848 9609 or book online at www.bhf.org.uk/collection