CROWNGATE has asked its oldest tenant to share their memories of the shopping centre on its 25th anniversary.

Rags Fabrics Worcester, in Crowngate Chapel Walk, moved into the centre when it first opened over 25 years ago.

Dawn Allen, aged 54, owner of Rags, said: "We were in The Shambles market hall when we opened there in 1987 or 1988.

"We wanted a more prestigious shop and a better location and they were developing this at the time.

"We are the longest tenant here. We have customers coming from all over the place to shop with us."

Ms Allen said that their location in the centre of the city has meant they have been in the middle of many major events in Worcester's recent history.

She added that a number of the traders in the centre got to visit the Queen two decades ago.

She said: "Years ago a trip was put on by Crowngate to go to a garden party at Windsor Castle. It was hosted by the Queen.

"It was a coach trip and we were all given a Queen Elizabeth rose from her garden centre."

Ms Allen said her shop has good footfall and said big stores like Primark draw customers in.

She added that her shop sells fabric for dressmaking and has established a reputation for friendly staff and good quality materials.

Crowngate is now looking forward to another 25 years of trading and has invited shoppers to visit the complex this Christmas.

The centre has organised a range of festive activities, including a Santa's grotto and elf workshops.

Anyone who wants to find out more about Crowngate can visit http://crowngate-worcester.co.uk/

Alternatively if you want to share any memories of Chapel Walk or Friary Walk visit the centre's Facebook page on https://www.facebook.com/crowngateshoppingcentre/?ref=br_rs