A CHARITY made a fresh bid to attract Swindon shoppers by revamping its store.

The British Heart Foundation shop in Havelock Street has been closed since January 31.

New wooden floors, lighting and shelving have been put in along with new hangers.

The shop has also been given a thorough clean up, the outside painted, a modern sign has been put up outside and one of the changing rooms has been taken out to provide more space for music and books.

Margaret Richardson, area manager for the British Heart Foundation, said the main aim was to ensure the shop could keep pace with other charity shops nearby.

“It just looks tidier,” she said.

“I understand the shop opened about 18 years ago and nothing has been done.

“This is one of the last ones to be refurbished on my block.”

She said she believes this would pay a dividend and convince customers to make a return visit.

“Most shops will get £200 to £500 more a week after they have been refurbished, once the customers come in and realise what the quality of stock we sell is.

“We need to get people coming back and being loyal to the charity.”

The British Heart Foundation funds research, education and life-saving equipment and helps heart patients.