A NEWPORT County AFC shop, which had to relocate to the city centre because of the Nato summit, has proved a success with shoppers.

More than 130 people have signed a petition in 24 hours for the temporary pop-up merchandise shop, which opened in the Kingsway Centre on Tuesday, August 26, to stay for good.

The shop had to move from its current site in Rodney Parade after Gwent Police announced they would be using the venue for preparations for the Nato summit on September 4 and 5.

Volunteer Mick White, who manages the pop-up shop, said: “We didn’t know how people would react, but it’s been absolutely amazing.

“We have got people coming in who are not interested in football, some who have never even been to Rodney Parade.

“Of course we still want to keep the one in Rodney Parade, but if we did have this one too it would be very beneficial.”

74-year-old Mr White, who is giving up his chance to watch County’s next match in Portsmouth to run the shop, said football tops and baby-wear have been selling fast.

He said: “In 24 hours we’ve taken in about £400. Saturday could be a lucrative day with so many people in the town centre.”

Season ticket holder Sarah Hastings, from Newport, said: “It’s sometimes hard for people to get to Rodney Parade, especially by bus.”

The shop, which was due to officially open yesterday, was forced to open a day earlier after shoppers spotted Mr White setting up the merchandise and queued at the door.

Kayleigh Norman, 26, from Newport: “It’s a very good location. It entices people to come in. It makes it easier being here, as you can just pop in when you’re in the town centre.”