A ST HELENS fashion retailer has waved goodbye to the shop where the business was born after relocating its womenswear store to Barrow Street.

OD's Designer Clothing was founded in Cotham Street in St Helens town centre 28 years ago but has undergone expansion after buying and developing empty town centre buildings.

St Helens Star:

The old store on Cotham Street

On Sunday owner Chris O'Dea confirmed he was moving the women's store to be "under one roof" with the menswear shop on 44 Barrow Street. The business's lease was expiring on the Cotham Street building.

Mr O'Dea, who also owns a jewellery shop and children's fashion store, said: "It's a very emotional day personally for me after 28 years of running OD’s from our Cotham Street stores – today’s the day we say goodbye to where it all started.

St Helens Star:

Inside the newly combined Barrow Street store

"But as one chapter ends another one starts and another chance to grow. OD’s Women’s is now on the ground floor of our recently extended men’s store in Barrow Street and I couldn’t be any happier with how it looks with the men’s and women’s collections under one roof.

St Helens Star:

Inside the newly combined Barrow Street store

"So here's to another 28 years and more."

Mr O'Dea, who employs more than 20 staff, said the move would help to "future proof" the business, which has expanded its office space to boost the online side of the business.

He added: "I would like to thank all our customers new and old for the continued support of OD’s and we will continue to strive to bring you the best clothing, footwear and accessories around."