THE new manager of Sidmouth’s Cancer Research UK shop says she has a personal motivation to see the store raise cash to help beat the illness.

Tracey Pearce, 49, of Arcot Park, lost her sister to the devastating disease and has also seen her mum stricken by it.

She this week took over the reins of the Fore Street outlet from former manager Sharon Lupu. Sharon, also 49, has returned to her career as a carer.

“This charity is close to my heart as I lost my sister to cancer and my mother also has it,” said Tracey.

Sharon added: “Tracey has a fantastic group of volunteers helping us in the shop, and without them –and also the support of our donors – the shop would not be as successful as it is.”

She said electrical sales had been a great success, that more goods would help, and people signing up for Gift Aid will boost the cause.