A CHARITY shop which supports young mothers has moved to new premises in Basingstoke.

The LIFE charity has switched its Basingstoke shop from Wote Street to Winchester Street after just 15 months because the rent became too high.

The charity provides emergency accommodation for women in crisis and has homes in Fleet and Farnborough that provide shelter to young mothers.

It also offers fertility advice, baby care support and education.

Councillor Sean Keating, who represents South Ham at Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, cut a red ribbon to officially open the newly-relocated shop.

He said: “I am delighted to be associated with this charity.”

A team of eight volunteers spent three weeks painting and decorating for the grand opening of their shop, which used to be occupied by Johnsons Dry Cleaning.

It will accept donations such as clothes, baby clothes and equipment, toys, kitchen items, bedding and small, working electrical items.

Manager Jenny Filkins said: “People have worked very hard to get it open. I am excited about being here and we should be here for a long time because we have a 10-year lease.”

The shop is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

To donate, visit or call 01256 475637.