ST CUTHBERT'S Hospice in Durham City has realised a long-held ambition by opening a shop in the city.

The hospice, which needs to raise £300,000 a year to continue with its work, has found a shop in Claypath.

It began trading this week after being opened by North-East author and agony aunt Denise Robertson.

She said: "I have been able to see for myself over the last few years what a wonderful job St Cuthbert's does for the community.''

The hospice, which is based at Merryoaks and recently opened a big extension, has charity shops at Langley Moor, Langley Park, Chester-le-Street and Spennymoor.

Nursing manager Margaret Jefferson said: "St Cuthbert's is a hospice for Durham, particularly Durham City, but we have never been able to have a shop in the city."