THE former managing director of Tyrers department store is launching her Rainford boutique Ellamora with a vintage-themed opening event this Sunday (August 21).

Ali Tyrer said the clothes and gift shop in the heart of the village will open its doors at 2pm, with a ribbon-cutting and a short speech.

The boutique, housed in a former post office and bakery in Church Road, opens around seven months after Bridge Street store Tyrers closed its doors after 128 years in business due to financial difficulties.

Mum-of-three Ali, who lives in Prescot, named the store 'Ellamora' - combining her youngest daughter's name 'Ella' and her own middle name 'Mora'.

As she was helping put finishing touches to the store's decor this afternoon (Friday), Ali told the Star: "I really am looking forward to Sunday. It's the culmination of a lot of hard work and an emotional journey.

"What stopped in St Helens with Tyrers is about to start again here and I hope everything I've learned over the years will be put to good use."

She added: "I've been overwhelmed by support from the people of Rainford."

Ellamora, facing the Derby Arms pub, will be open from 9am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays, but with a 6pm finish on Thursdays; on Saturdays it will open from 10am to 4pm.