A LEDBURY success story will be celebrated this Saturday, June 21, with the official opening of the Homend Shopping Mall.

The site of the former Eager Electrical store, which stood empty for two years after closing in the autumn of 2011, has been converted into affordable units for enterprising traders seeking their first step on the retail ladder.

Margaret Eager and her son, Martin, have spent £250,000 converting and renovating the premises, including re-wiring, insulation and a new roof, and the units are being snapped up.

Mrs Eager said: "I think small towns need this sort of thing, with individuals making or selling unique and unusual things. It's helping to keep the town alive."

Now the Mall is browsing territory for anyone seeking anything from furniture to lamps, from cakes to fashion and bags.

Nine traders are currently based there, with one more set to move in. That leaves just three more units unspoken for.

The official launch on Saturday will start at 11am and will include an adult treasure hunt, children's face painting and nail painting, raffles, games, competitions and refreshments.

Special guests will be the Town Crier and the Carnival Princess.