A NEW focal point of the anti HS2 march was opened in Amersham on Saturday with the unveiling of a new campaign shop.

Huge maps showing the planned route of the line and photos detailing where tunnel portals are likely to be built went on display as the shop, in Hill Avenue, was opened.

It's the work of the Amersham Action Group, who have been working relentlessly since November to have the information and campaign point ready, and the Chiltern Society.

The opening of the shop saw the town's MP Cheryl Gillan and Buckinghamshire County Council Leader Martin Tett arrive to urge residents to continue the fight against a project that has caused so much opposition in Amersham.

Mrs Gillan said: "I'm delighted to come here and launch the shop. I would encourage everybody in the area to come and see this.

"They've put together a comprehensive exhibition about what's going to happen if this project goes ahead, and to raise money. We need to raise money, not just for the fight but for any future action we may have.

"The whole strategy of HS2 is wrong. If it's so good for the north we should start in the north."

Amersham Mayor Mimi Harker said: "I want to say a huge thank you to everybody who has been fighting HS2 on our behalf, for all the time they have invested in this campaign and for their dedication in ensuring the best possible outcome for us.

"I also wanted to say that I totally support Cheryl Gillan’s views that they should start the build in the north and that we also need to get our young people involved in the campaign, as this is their future their debt as well.

"I hope the community will come out and visit the shop in Amersham and support the campaign financially. Wear your white elephant badge with pride - I always do."

Chris Wilson, the Amersham Action Group's project manager and fundraiser, said he had been working "flat out for two and a half weeks" to get the shop ready for the opening.

Mr Wilson, who has led a fundraising campaign that has collected over £50,000 to oppose HS2, said: "It's so important to have a place like this - it gives a focal point to the campaign."

Cllr Harker added: "Chris Wilson is a formidable leader of this action group and we all owe him a debt of gratitude for all he and his fantastic team are doing on our behalf."

The group is looking for volunteers to help man the store, which is scheduled to open for six days a week until the end of March. Anyone interested should call Mr Wilson on 01494 432059.