A long-serving Felixstowe mum whose grandson passed away 30 years ago says she is “honoured” to cut the ribbon at a new charity shop in the resort.

Sue Buckley has been volunteering at the East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) shop in Felixstowe since January 2013, shortly after the store opened the previous November.

Ms Buckley will now be opening the new EACH shop, which will open in the former NatWest bank, on the corner of Hamilton Road and York Road, next Thursday.

Her grandson Jamie passed away at three years old with a rare form of muscular dystrophy.

The mum-of-two said: “Volunteering here has made me realise how much we would have benefitted from a children’s hospice. Unfortunately, there wasn’t anything locally at that time.

“However, the support would have made such a difference, not just to my daughter and son-in-law but also myself and my late husband, as grandparents.

Ipswich Star: The shop will be opening in the former NatWest bank.The shop will be opening in the former NatWest bank. (Image: EACH)

“EACH is there for the whole family, including siblings, and it’s an amazing organisation.

“Obviously, I have experience of how it feels to have a child, or grandson, in my case, with a life-threatening condition and that’s why I wanted to give something back.

“I wanted to be in a position to try and help other families going through similar things.”

She added: "When I was asked to cut the ribbon I felt proud and honoured. I actually felt quite moved.

“I’ve met some lovely people and, when you retire, taking an opportunity like this keeps you out there in the world.

“It’s a way to meet new people and stay connecting, within a very pleasant and supportive environment.”

The current EACH shop, which is across the road from the new shop, is due to close on this coming Saturday.

Donations can continue to be dropped there until then.