A long-established charity in Hitchin will be shutting up shop today and closing the door on their town centre base.

But Save the Children is on the hunt for new premises after making the decision to move out of the Churchyard shop which has been its public face for the last 25 years.

Regional manager Joan Smyth said: “We are closing because we are a volunteer-led shop and the rent the landlord wants would not make us a viable proposition.

“The landlord did give us a reduction while he marketed the shop but we haven’t been able to re-negotiate acceptable terms.

“It’s very sad but it’s a decision we’ve thought long and hard about.

“Our aim is to find a new town centre site in Hitchin, but it’s a shame we are having to close.”

Volunteer team leader Barbara Smith said: “It’s sad. We have a tremendous team of volunteers.

“You couldn’t wish for a finer set of friends.

“Maybe a benefactor will read this and will offer us a new site.”