LOCAL history, heritage and fun were the themes at BHS in Church Square Shopping Centre which held a fun day in the store to boost shopper numbers.

The mayor and mayoress of St Helens, Cllrs Stephen and Lynn Glover were in attendance for the celebration which saw exhibits put on by the World of Glass.

Children's author Rachel Lyon was there to read to the little ones who took part in some art activities on the day and had a visit from Harvey the nine-foot rabbit.

The department store's new manager Michael Bracken the day was a huge success.

"We see this as part of our community engagement," he said.

"All the people who have turned up have been fantastic. The aim is to get the community to shop in St Helens so they know what is on their doorstep rather than go to the city centres. And we want to showcase the great retail opportunities in the town centre.

"It's been a great success and I really want to do more in the future."

The team at the store has also raised more than £250 on the day for its chosen charity Breast Cancer Care through cake sales.