A former Blue Peter presenter helped to launch a pop-up charity shop specialising in designer clothing.

TV presenter and Action for Children retail ambassador, Anthea Turner, put in a surprise appearance at the intu shopping centre in Watford to celebrate the launch of the charity’s 1869 store yesterday.

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Anthea with 1869 customers

The launch party marked the second ever pop-up from the brand since the first in Norwich last year, where Action for Children raised £19,000 in just four weeks.

The Action for Children charity first launched in 1869, hence the name, and rather than stocking second-hand clothes, the chain will offer new, sample or store seconds items from retailers including Hobbs, Phase 8 and Damsel in a Dress.

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A model ambassador

Ms Turner said: “It was great to come along to Watford and see all the amazing clothes for sale in the latest 1869 pop up. It’s so important to me not only because the money raised goes to a charity I have supported for many years.

“But also, that this recycling of fashion items which may otherwise end up in landfill is such an incredible thing to do for our environment - anything we can do to stop that damaging cycle is amazing.”

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1869 comes to Watford

Lisa Nicholson, senior retail and partnerships manager at Action for Children added: “We’re so excited to be bringing the 1869 experience to Watford. Every single purchase will go towards helping vulnerable and disadvantaged children across the UK, often in desperate situations.”

1869 will also be hosting a series events throughout February and March from clothes upcycling classes to fashion shows. All profits from the store will go towards helping vulnerable children across the UK.

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Anthea Turner launches the 1869 store

Vicki Costello, general manager at intu Watford, said: “We are really excited to welcome the 1869 Action for Children shop and it’s a great addition to our centre. Action for Children do fantastic work, and this is a brilliant idea which we think our shoppers will love. I’m looking forward to popping in and having a browse myself.”