A CHARITY shop celebrated the launch of its new vintage boutique section by giving away free hugs.

Help the Aged held a day of live music and festivities at the store, in Blackburn Road, Accrington, to launch their ‘Identity’ boutique, featuring designer and vintage clothing.

Manager Tasneem Khamker, also marked the occasion by giving away 142 free hugs outside the store. She said: “It was a fun thing to do and put a smile on people’s faces.”

The new ‘Identity’ boutique includes a bridal section as well as retro and vintage-inspired clothing and shoes, a designer department and ‘harajuku’, a Japanese alternative inspired clothing and shoes section.

Prices for the new ranges are expected to be from £2.49 up to £150.

Tazneem said: “In setting up these boutiques I’m hoping to attract new and younger customers and in turn make more profit for the charity.

“I wanted to do something different to what you would see in other charity shops.

"I believe that not everyone follows the fashion of now or what’s seen on the catwalk.

“Some individuals create their own fashion, and these are the individuals I’m hoping will come and shop in the boutique.