A special school has opened its second shop to give its pupils work experience.

West Lea School, in Haselbury Lane, Edmonton, welcomed actress Anita Dobson to help open its new store ‘West Lea in the Town’.

Its previous charity store in Edmonton Green shopping centre opened in 2012 and gave its pupils an opportunity to help run a store, learn customer and retail skills.

All proceeds will be put straight back into the school to enable trips and visits for the pupils.

Sue Tripp, Headteacher at West Lea School said: “I am delighted that we are able to open this new shop, which will have the same aims and objectives as the first, but will facilitate a much needed expansion in work experience places, that provide wonderful opportunities for our young people.

“It is also planned that this outlet will provide an opportunity to ‘upcycle’ donated goods, in particular furniture, where the students can add value to the goods, working to restore them to their former glory.”

Julian Halford, community and enterprise manager for West Lea School added: “West Lea in the Green has had such an impact on our pupils', other schools in the area and the local community. I remember one of our first pupils, Sean, who was, at the time, very introverted.

“By his second week, he had come out of his shell and was trying his best to communicate. He still works with us at the shop, and we are so pleased with his continued progress and success.”

The shop is located in Church Street, Enfield Town and is now open to the public.

Cllr Ayfer Orhan, Enfield council’s cabinet member for education, children’s services and protection, said: “West Lea School is a shining example of success – demonstrating that young people can succeed whatever their ability.

"It is always at the forefront of school activities whether it is in sports, arts or academic studies and this latest enterprise is a great addition to the bustling Enfield Town. We wish them every success and encourage local shoppers to support it.”