A MALVERN Link shop owner is hoping to gather support from other traders for late night Christmas shopping evenings in the area.

Pauline Golding, owner of Past and Present Collectables, wants shops to open until 10pm one night a week in the run-up to Christmas.

There has never been late night Christmas shopping in Malvern Link before, but Ms Golding thinks it would be a success.

She said: "I have spoken to a few other shopkeepers in Fir Tree Walk and nearby and they seem to think it would be a good idea.

"The pizza place and Chinese restaurant would be open anyway and with the shops too, people could make an evening of it."

The idea was welcomed by Lynn Hornblower, of the Paper Moon Caf,

The caf is planning to expand and sell handicrafts and organic produce and will be open later in the evenings in coming months.

Ms Hornblower said she would be interested to find out more about the plans.

Richard Chapman, acting clerk of Malvern Town Council, was also enthusiastic about the plans.

He said: "There is going to be an event in Great Malvern on Friday, November 21, when all the Christmas lights are being switched on.

"I think it would be a good idea perhaps if the late night shopping in the Link took place then. If Ms Golding wants to get in touch with us, we will see what we can do."

The traders of Barnards Green have already shown what can be achieved, running a string of Christmas shopping events with entertainment.