ALIENS, vampires and rock stars are just some of the characters to be found at a new store that has bucked the recession in Waltham Abbey.

The Stage Shop in Highbridge Street, has just opened offering theatre props and fancy dress outfits.

Theatre groups looking for assistance will also be able to hire out sound equipment and lighting from the shop whose staff have years of experience in the theatre world.

Shopworker Joe Pearce said: “We ran a dance group and we had all our stuff in storage when this shop became available. We decided to take it out of storage to put it up for hire.

“If people want something unusual to wear this is the place to come. We've got the Rocky Horror Show, we've got Austin Powers, everything really. It's a fun and colourful shop.

“Halloween is coming up then Christmas and the office parties so we're hopeful of some good trade.”

• To find out more about the shop call 07514 076244.