A family business set up in the 1970s is expanding to a new location.

Derwent Pharmacy is relocated from its current premises adjoining Derwent Practice to the former job centre in Norton Road, Norton.

Owner Neil Beecham, whose father Ian first opened a pharmacy in Malton, said: "Over the years there have been many changes to the town and to the family business.

"The pharmacy that is currently at the surgery moved there from Yorkersgate in Malton about 12 years ago.

"Since then the business has grown, partly down to the growth of the town and it has got to the point where need more space.

Neil said: "We are relocating to the building that was previously the Job Centre just a stones throw from where we are currently.

"The increase in space will allow the current service of the pharmacy to have the space it needs and give staff a better working environment."

Neil said the extra space would also allow the business to expand.

"We plan to develop our own services but also have consultation rooms. We already have a chiropodist and ear syringing service wanting to use some of the space.

"Along with us gaining space, it also releases our current premises for Derwent Practice to re-utilise into ground floor clinical space, again something that is needed in the growing town."

Neil said: "As has always been the case, the family business, and in particular my dad, who sadly passed away last year, have been a part of the community in so many ways we want to keep that going forward as best we can.

"For that reason I have had the building named 'Ian Beecham House' as a nod to the legacy and influence my dad had on a lot of people and the community he lived and served."

The pharmacy will close at its normal time on Saturday, May 1 and open up at the new premises with the usual opening hours on Tuesday, May 4, following May Bank Holiday Monday.

Neil said:"All the staff are looking forward to the move and people we've spoken to in the shop in recent weeks about it very much share our enthusiasm.

"I would stress if anyone has any queries relating to our move to please just give us a call. Our phone number will be staying the same. "

Neil said: "This is a big move for our business but I see this as a positive step not only for our staff team, but more importantly to be able to improve and develop our service offering to the community where we live and work.