A charity shop is proving so popular that it needs to expand to larger premises.

The shop in Clacton which has raised more than £5,000 for St Helena Hospice's Tendring centre in less than a year is struggling for space.

And it is now looking to set up in a larger unit next door.

Lesley-Anne Mills, who is manageress at the shop which sells children's items from the store in Orwell Road, Clacton, said it was coming up to the first anniversary of opening up.

"It has been an incredible first 12 months and we have had tremendous support from the people of Clacton," she said.

"The hospice's day centre is obviously a popular cause and we are delighted to have been able to raise more than £5,000 in such a short time."

Ms Mills decided to set up the project in memory of 26-year-old Clacton mother, Clare Archer, who died from cancer last year.

Landlord John Golding read of Ms Mills' plight in the Evening Gazette and came forward with an offer of premises.

Published Tuesday October 15, 2002

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