The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has opened a huge new store in Southampton.

The second-hand home store welcomed customers into the new 7,000 square foot space on Sunday, July 28, located in Westquay Retail Park.

The store was opened by Associate Professor Jonathan West, a BHF researcher at the University of Southampton.

Associate Professor Jonathan West cut the ceremonial ribbon and spoke to the team about the lifesaving research the store will help fund.

He said: “In the UK, more than half of us will get a heart or circulatory condition in our lifetime.

“My team are developing pioneering microchip technology to predict the risk of unwanted blood clotting which cause heart attacks and strokes, and its thanks to stores like this one that our research is funded.

“The new store is so impressive and full of vintage furniture, artwork and ornaments, the sale of which will help fund breakthrough research.”

Associate Professor Jonathan West cut the ceremonial ribbon at the opening (Image: British Heart Foundation)

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Daniel Cartmale, BHF area manager, added: “We have spent a long time searching for the perfect location for a new home store in Southampton, after the lease ended on our previous store six years ago.

“This new location in the West Quay Retail Park is fantastic for customers, with a large car park and enough space inside to stock all the incredible items that have been kindly donated.”

He continued: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone inside to shop with us.

“Our fantastic team, including 30 volunteers, have all been busy learning the ropes and getting everything ready for our big opening day.

“The store and warehouse are packed full of stock ready to hit the shelves, so please do come down and look around to see what you can find.”

The new store will be open seven days a week.