THE Crown Estate has paid tribute to the city’s thriving shopping centre on its 25th anniversary.

Crowngate Shopping Centre is owned by the British monarch as part of the Crown Estate and has just turned 25-years-old.

Worcester residents have shared their memories about the centre and its history as part of the birthday celebrations.

Nicole Campbell, asset manager for the Crown Estate, said: “Crowngate has such a story to tell.

“There is a vibrant history here – both in the physical space and with the people who make Crowngate such a vibrant place to shop and spend time.

“Working with Worcester News on gathering stories for the 25 year celebration timeline has been really interesting.

“Whether celebrating the staff who have worked here since opening in 1992, reminiscing about new store openings which have brought big brand names to Worcester, or city-wide events which the centre continues to have a pivotal role in delivering, it’s clear Crowngate really is a very special place at the heart of the city.

“There is a lot to be proud of, not least of all the fabulous shops which call Crowngate home, from large department stores to smaller, unique independent retailers.”

Ms Campbell added that the Crown Estate is proud of what Crowngate has to offer and said the eclectic shopping environment had good quality facilities and excellent retailers offering first class customer service.

She said: “We are on a journey for the long-term here, always looking to improve things for our shoppers, from soft furnishings and events, to the introduction of free centre-wide WiFi and parking after 5pm and all-day Sunday for just £1.

“We are especially proud of Recruit Crowngate, an initiative set up by The Crown Estate working in partnership with Heart of Worcestershire College offering a free, professional recruitment service for the people of Worcester, Crowngate retailers and local businesses.

“We recently hosted a jobs fair for Christmas vacancies at the centre which was really well attended.

"It has been really great to hear people’s stories, and read about all the things that make the centre so special. Here is to the next 25 years, which we are excited to be embarking on with you."

If you want to find out more about Crowngate you can visit http://crowngate-worcester.co.uk/ or go on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/crowngateshoppingcentre