A NEW charity book shop in Malvern Link got off to a star quality start when a famous face from TV and theatre declared it open.
Stars In Their Eyes host Matthew Kelly was on hand to cut the ribbon and open St Richard’s Hospice’s new bookshop in front of dozens of guests on Friday.
Kelly was performing at Malvern Theatres throughout the week in the Richard Bean production of ‘Toast’.
But the 65-year-old, known to millions of TV viewers for presenting shows such as ‘Stars In Their Eyes’, ‘You Bet’ and ‘Game For A Laugh’, took time out from his busy schedule to meet St Richard’s Hospice staff at the newly refurbed Worcester Road store.
The new shop, which offers plethora of books, music and films, has undergone a major refit in recent months following the launch of its department store across the road which has been labelled a huge success since opening last November.
Speaking to the Observer, Kelly said: “It has been wonderful to open this lovely book shop. There’s a great choice to choose from.
“The charity has got a huge department store across the road so the charity has got it down to a tee in Malvern.
“This is my third or fourth time performing here and I love it every time.
“Nic Lloyd, the chief executive at Malvern Theatres is a great guy and Malvern Theatres is such a wonderful venue.”
And the charity, which provides care for people with life-limiting illnesses, is on the hunt for people who have a spare few hours a week to help out run the shop.
Kathy Walker, the shop’s new manager, added: “It’s been a great start with Matthew taking his time out to open the store. He’s been very generous.
“We are urging people who have a few spare hours each week to volunteer and make this shop a huge success moving forward.”
Anyone who would like to volunteer should pop in to the store or call 01905 763963.
