MUCH-LOVED TV actress Sue Johnston OBE has opened a Christmas card shop with a difference.

The festive outlet in Wilmslow Library stocks more than 300 different card designs from 30 local and national charities.

Sue, who lives in Wilmslow, played Sheila Grant in Brookside, Barbara Royle in The Royle Family, Miss Denker in Downton Abbey and countless other roles in Coronation Street and Waking the Dead.

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Sheila Hallas, MBE, founded the venture half a century ago. The shop missed fundraising last year due to the pandemic.

Sue said “ I was delighted to support such an incredible local initiative as they reopen this year.

"I am amazed that it has been running for 50 years and has raised £5.5 million.

Sue Johnston, Sheila Hallas and Caroline and Terry Reeves with Lady from hearing Dogs for Deaf People

Sue Johnston, Sheila Hallas and Caroline and Terry Reeves with Lady, a show cocker spaniel training with hearing Dogs for Deaf People

"Even though I shop here every year, I am particularly pleased to help as I know how hard it has been for all charities and anything that we can do to help is good.

"The range of cards available means I won’t be going anywhere else for mine."

Sue spent 30 minutes chatting with customers and volunteers whilst browsing round the shop and buying cards and festive gifts.

Sheila Hallas said: “We were thrilled that Sue could attend to launch our 2021 shop. This year is our half century celebration and we are thrilled that someone as busy as Sue has given up her time to open the shop.”

The Wilmslow shop is open every day, except Sunday, until December 11.

A charity Christmas card shop opens in Knutsford Curzon cinema on Thursday, November 4 until December 3.

Cards can also be bought online at christmas-cards.org.uk