THE new operations manager of a Worcester shopping centre is no stranger to the retail industry.

Carolyn Mantle, who was formerly manager of CrownGate's C&A store, is now be responsible for the whole centre's health and safety, security, personnel and marketing.

The Hull University graduate starts her operations role following a year with Matalan, setting up its Weston-Super-Mare branch and managing its Stratford-upon-Avon branch.

She began her retail career in 1989 as a graduate trainee with C&A with her first management position at the Walsall store.

She eventually took on both Worcester and Hereford stores simultaneously before leaving to start a family in 1999.

The new appointment further strengthens the management team at CrownGate, which is owned by the Crown Estate and managed by CB Hillier Parker.

Ms Mantle said by coincidence, one of her first calls as operations manager was to the opening of the latest New Look store at the former C&A unit.

"It was something of an emotional moment but the new store looks wonderful," she said.