A SHOP in Hereford city centre that was recently saved from closure will be giving out free products this weekend.

The Hereford Body Shop manager Trudy Utovou said it was "great news" that the shop would remain open, after the company was bought out in a rescue deal by investment firm Aurea.

The Body Shop went into administration into February, warning that hundreds of the 1,500 workers around the UK would lose their jobs with dozens of shops to be lost.

Since the firm went into administration, around 500 staff have lost their jobs and more than 270 head office roles have been cut. The Body Shop closed 82 branches in March and April.

The Hereford shop is one of the surviving 113 around the UK.

Ms Utovou said that on Saturday, September 21, the shop will be celebrating World Gratitude Day by giving all customers a free Calm Balm.

Hereford's Body Shop has been rescued in a deal with Aurea.Hereford's Body Shop has been rescued in a deal with Aurea. (Image: ROB DAVIES) ALSO READ:

The Body Shop says its Calm Balm can be rubbed on pulse points to encourage mindfulness, with a scent of eucalyptus and rosemary.

 "The Body Shop Hereford store would like to share great news that we are saved and thankful for the Aurea group that has rescued us," said Ms Utovou.

"We will be keeping the good vibes going and celebrating Gratitude Day to say thank you to our customers for sticking with us.

"On Saturday, September 21, as a thank you to our customers we are giving all customers a free Calm Balm worth £12. All the customers need to do is share what they are grateful for."

Aurea, the company that has bought out the Body Shop, is owned by tycoon Mike Jatania, with a spokesperson for the investment firm telling the Sun: "As with any business, particularly one that has ended up in administration, there is a need to manage costs but we believe that the stores are an important part of the brand’s connection to its customers."

The Body Shop was originally founded by Dame Anita Roddick in Brighton in 1976 and sells cruelty-free, fairtrade beauty products.