Devon Air Ambulance had a warm welcome when its new shop landed in Sidmouth on Saturday.

The opening of the Church Street store marked the return of the cause to the town, which its bosses had been keen to see for a long time.

Debbie Collingwood, new manager of the shop, said: “A lot of lovely people came in throughout the day and we had a good response from all the locals.

“The shop brings us support but also keeps us in the minds of local people and businesses.”

She was previously a volunteer coordinator for the charity, based in Exeter, so said it was nice to be working in her own town.

The ribbon was cut by charity CEO Heléna Holt and BBC Radio Devon’s David Fitzgerald, as the station helped fund a new helicopter that is currently being made to specification.

Debbie thanked the neighbouring businesses supported the event with prizes for a raffle.

She is still looking for more volunteers and they are always looking for donations.