CROWDS gathered to watch as actress Debra Stephenson opened the latest Julia's House charity shop.

Debra, patron and long-standing supporter of the children's hospice, cut the ribbon at the Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone shop on Wednesday (Feb1).

The shop, which offers a range of women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, bric-a-brac, books and toys is just a few doors away from the original, smaller store.

Speaking at the opening Debra said how much she enjoyed being involved with the charity.

“I think for people who live locally they realise how important Julia’s House is for the people it supports,” she added.

“For me it is an honour to be involved and I was more than happy to come along and open the new shop.

“It’s just fantastic as the charity relies on fundraising and the money made at these shops.”

The Broadstone store is the eleventh for the charity which supports children with life-limiting conditions.

Two such children are brothers Leo and Elliott Travers – who attended the opening with their parents.

Leo, three, and Elliott, 15-months, both suffer from glycogen storage disease – a rare metabolic condition which means they are unable to release energy from their livers.

As a result they have to be fed every two hours. During the night this is done through a feeding pump.

Mum Kayleigh Travers said Julia’s House was a lifeline for the family.

“The nurses and the carers are so wonderful which means I have no worries dropping the boys off for hospice sessions,” added Kayleigh.

“That time to ourselves is so important it just gives us a break.”

The charity’s chief executive Martin Edwards said he was pleased to see such a “brilliant turnout” for the opening.

Now the charity is appealing for more volunteers to help make it a success.

Anyone interested in volunteering should call 01202 644220 or email volunteer@juliashouse.org