FORMER Dr Who star Colin Baker performed the ribbon cutting duties to open a new shop for High Wycombe's longest serving charity.

The Bucks Free Press columnist officially launched High Wycombe Central Aid Society's first charity store in the old Tourist Information Centre premises in Paul's Row.

The charity will sell donated furniture and other goods from the volunteer-run store, which will be open on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 10am and 4pm.

The organisation, which also runs a furniture warehouse and the Over-50's Pop-in service in West Richardson Street, has initially moved in for a six-month period but charity bosses hope the shop will become a firm town centre fixture.

Secretary to the society Clyde Perkins said: “I think Colin was impressed with what we are doing, a lot of the items we are selling were collected by his friend – the great Tom Smith OBE.

“We've taken it on from the council on a short term deal and in the first couple of weeks we've raised more money then the running costs.

“But another reason for the shop was to raise the profile of the charity, so if things keep moving in the right direction then we may continue with the shop.”

Donations can be made to the charity by dropping off items at the new store or by contacting 01494 535890.