Kirkby Lonsdale's information and gift shop has re-opened after a major make-over and a successful recruitment drive for volunteers to staff it.

The shop, at 24 Main Street, is managed by Sarah Ross, the town's tourism and town manager.

"Without the shop, and our volunteers, Kirkby Lonsdale and the surrounding area would have no focal point for visitors or new residents to find out about the area," Sarah said.

"We have freshened up the premises with a new paint scheme,improved display areas, new flooring and lighting and a range of gifts and souvenirs relevant to this corner of Cumbria. We want local organisations, groups and clubs to see the shop as a place to publicise their activities, while our range of gifts and souvenirs should appeal to visitors and residents alike.

"This is a community-run shop for the community.

"The town is anticipating a major house-building project later this year - the biggest since the Fairgarth Drive homes were built more than 60 years ago. Our population is going to expand, and a hub such as this will be vital as a means of helping people to settle into the community, and for the community to make new residents welcome."