A charity has opened a new pre-loved fashion boutique in Welwyn, providing a boost to the village's High Street.

Always Loved by Isabel Hospice opened on Thursday, September 7, with the charity's chair of trustees, Terry Philpott, and the Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield, Pankit Shah, cutting the ribbon, while Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps also paid a visit.

"We had such a great turn out on what was a very hot and humid evening," said Charlotte Greenwood, head of retail and marketing at Isabel Hospice.

"It was great to see the shop really come to life and have it bustling with people already making their pre-loved purchases.

"This shop launch has been a real labour of love, and our first opening since COVID-19, the last being in 2019. Always Loved is the first of many new shops opening across eastern Hertfordshire for the Hospice, so watch this space."

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Always Loved is part of Isabel Hospice's efforts to move away from the traditional charity shop, with Charlotte continuing: "There has been a noticeable shift towards shopping second hand, reflecting a change in consumer mindset towards sustainable fashion.

"It's wonderful to see shoppers becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of fast fashion. Whilst not forgetting, every purchase made in an Isabel Hospice shop raises vital funds for the palliative care the hospice provides to those in the local community.

"Please do make sure to pop in and say hello, we’re confident you’ll find some unique, and quality pieces to add to your wardrobe."

In order to keep Always Loved fully stocked, Isabel Hospice needs the community’s support in donations.

These can now be dropped off directly at the new shop, located at 21-25 High Street, Welwyn, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

Isabel Hospice also relies heavily on volunteers to support the running of their shops. If you have an interest in retail, fashion, and sustainable shopping, you can email volunteer.office@isabelhospice.org.uk, or call 01707 382500, option 4.