THE founder of a charity celebrated her birthday in style by having a building named after her.

Stella Lucas MBE, who founded All Aboard Charity Shops, attended the opening of the charity’s new head office in High Street, Edgware, yesterday.

The honour was given to Mrs Lucas ahead of her 94th birthday on July 30.

The move will allow All Aboard to expand while the old office space has been converted into a furniture salesroom.

She said: “They are lovely offices and I am thrilled. It is a great honour and today has been such fun. We have a small staff and the whole point of moving is to give us space to recruit more volunteers.

“We don’t buy goods and rely totally on people’s generosity.”

Carol Marks, the charity’s administrator, said: “Everyone loves Stella, she is an inspiration. The staff look up to her and she makes them want to do their best. They love to please her.”

All Aboard shops raise money for many charities and local causes including Jewish Care, AJEX (the Association of Jewish Ex-Servicemen and women) and Barnet Hospital.

There are 16 shops around north London, including ones in Finchley, Mill Hill and Hendon all administered from the new Stella Lucas House.

Mrs Lucas, who regularly visits the stores to see how things are running, added: “Our shops have to be lovely and tidy and friendly.

“Volunteers must wear their badges so customers know who to ask for help. And, nothing can be reduced without the authority of the manager. I am strict but they all respect me."  

She also holds several high profile community roles, including vice president of Jewish Care, and was co-founder of the Association of United Synagogue Ladies Guild.

Jeffrey Pinnick, chairman of trustees, said: “This is an important and meaningful morning for All Aboard Charity Shops. Stella is our matriarch, our president and founder. She is the star of All Aboard.”

Anyone wishing to volunteer or donate goods can call Carol on 020 8381 1717 or email admin@allaboardshops.com