A ROW of Worcester shops has been given a shot in the arm with the opening of a new fruit and vegetable store.

Griffin's grocers opened last Monday, October 29, in Sidbury.

The row of shops, which stretches from the Commandery Museum to the corner of Wyld's Lane, already includes a post office, a newsagents, two fish-and-chip shops, a betting shop and a butchers.

There is also a furniture shop, men's clothing shop, antiques shop and tea room.

Griffin's has moved into the old JuJu Fruits, which has been empty for about a year, according to the new owner, Jenny Griffin, from Ombersley.

"It's a very happy community, very friendly - there are a lot of elderly people who are very chatty," said Ms Griffin of the Sidbury community. "It's nicer than a village".

Ms Griffin buys her fruit and vegetables from Broomfields in Ombersley.

She was able to buy the shop after being left her grandmother's house.

A registered nurse, Ms Griffin nursed her grandmother for six years before her death, as well as nursing her mother, who had cancer.

She gave up nursing because the constant lifting has taken its toll on her hips and knees.

"So I've gone in a different direction," said the 50-year-old.

When she's not working in the shop she is part of a duo, with partner Danny Georgeovich, performing country and western songs in nursing homes and clubs around the city.