The healing power of crystals will be offered at a new shop in the town's Royal Arcade from this weekend onwards.

The store, called The Earth Inside, will open for business tomorrow, though the official launch takes place this afternoon.

Labour councillor Catherine Rowen will cut the ribbon to formally declare the shop open.

Local resident Zena Davis, who is halfway through advanced diplomas in crystal healing and colour therapy, is starting the business.

She will take exams for both courses this summer.

She said: "The Earth Inside will specialise in crystal jewellery and gifts and the healing, therapeutic powers of crystals.

"It'll also offer children's jewellery and fun, educational children's stuff including fossil and dinosaur products."

She said the shop would also offer a made-to-order service, along with free advice for customers wanting to use their crystals for therapeutic purposes.

She added: "Regular customers to any of the shops and services in the Royal Arcade will be welcome to borrow one of my many books whilst on the premises. These include many on alternative therapies, lifestyles, self-help and psychology."