AGE UK’s very own charity shop and community information point arrives in Dorchester tomorrow.

The shop, situated at 12-13 Trinity Street, is an exciting new venture for Age Concern Dorchester who will soon take on the name of Age UK Dorchester.

The official opening takes place at 11am tomorrow and the honour of opening the shop goes to recycling ‘guru’ Tracey Smith.

Tracey is the author of the best-selling Book of Rubbish Ideas, a broadcaster on sustainable living and patron of the local charity, Women’s Action Network Dorset (WAND).

She is a passionate advocate for simple, green living, and shops almost exclusively in Dorset and Somerset charity shops for clothes for her family.

Tracey said: “I'm delighted to help make a noise for this great, green charity shop in Dorchester and love the unique approach they're taking to making it more community oriented.

“The sassy, shabby chic look of the shop is perfect and pre-loved attire couldn't be more in.

“Supporting this shop will help you keep more money in your pocket, keep great clothes and other items out of landfill and ensure your wardrobe is vibrant and fresh.”

The vision is of the shop is selling good quality nearly new clothes, books, music and home wares, but to do so with a different feel.

There will be an information area spreading the word about all the many services that Age UK offers, a wealth of information about everything to do with growing older, as well as posters about what is happening in the community.

Funds raised help the elderly

All money raised will go towards providing local services for older people.

Wendy Hilton, right, the new shop manager said: “Just like Age Concern in Rowan Cottage, we want the atmosphere to be friendly and welcoming, so people want to pop in and talk, browse, ask questions and feel they are listened to.” Donations for the shop are always welcome and can be received during normal opening times of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

Alternatively they can be left in the donations collection cabinet situated at the entrance to the car park of Age Concern Dorchester, 4 Prince of Wales Road –but no electrical items or furniture.

Volunteers are also being sought to help run the shop. For information call 01305 753839.