THE new Tesco store on Sealand Road in Chester opened its doors with a champagne celebration.
Cake and champagne was handed out to the first customers across the threshold at 8am.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was carried out by former Kwik Save site manager Lawrence Laverick, 69, and manager of Blacon Sports Partnership Lee Bailey, who was presented with a cheque for £1,000.
The money will assist the Sports Partnership to develop sport in the local area and help nurture the next generation of Blacon Olympians.
Lee said: “When Tesco informed us that we were to receive one of their community donations we were delighted.
“We are already working with youngsters in the area to prepare them for the 2012 Games and funding for this is essential.”
Store manager Matthew France thanked Mr Laverick and Mr Bailey for officially declaring the store open, before thanking his staff for all their hard work.
He said: “The staff have put in weeks of hard work to prepare the store for our customers and I would like to thank them for their dedication.”
The store is offering customers a free circular bus service for three weeks, which takes in Blacon and Chester city centre.
Customers who shop there over the coming weeks will also be able to take part in some opening competitions and promotions, including the chance to be a mascot at Chester City and take part in a special Price Check game show this Saturday (August 16) with £300 of prizes to be won.
The 3 and 3a bus service will be free until August 30 if travelling to the store. We incorrectly published in this week’s Midweek Chronicle that the bus service would run only until August 11.
