AN animal welfare charity shop has opened in Alton to help the Overton-based HART Wildlife Rescue, which cares for animals all over Hampshire.

The association is currently based in a semi-detached house in Overton, but with the charity's admissions now exceeding 1,000 it needs to move to a purpose-built wildlife hospital and education centre.

Paula Baker, a borough councillor on the board of trustees, said: "Our wildlife needs your support. We would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone to come and have a look around whenever they are passing."

HART volunteers Alison and Adrian Keeble, Jane Rebut, and Peter Mart were responsible for much of the new shop's renovations.

The support of many other volunteers was much appreciated.