A charity shop that first opened on the high street more than three decades ago is closing its doors for the final time – but will be re-opening just over the road.

Oxfam in Finchley Central is moving to a “bigger and better” store almost directly opposite the spot it has occupied in Ballards Lane for the past 33 years.

Having searched for more than a year for suitable premises, managers have finally settled on the nearby location that will allow the branch to keeps its layout in line with other Oxfam shops across the UK.

The move is part of a wider strategy by the charity to standardise all of its fundraising outlets.

Store manager Debbie Stachera said: “We wanted to stay local as the people of Finchley know where we are and have really supported us over the years. We’re part of the community here – we know our customers and they know us.”

Many of the store’s current volunteers have been with the charity shop for a long time – some up to 20 years.

Debbie said: “There are lots of emotions about leaving a shop that first opened on December 1, 1980. But there is excitement too – it will be a new look shop and it will all be brand new.”

The current shop at 55 Ballards Lane will close on June 15 before the new branch opens at 96 Ballards Lane six days later on June 21.

Staff are holding a grand opening on June 29 and all of the current volunteers will continue to work at the new store.