Bob the Minion is a hit at Lostock Gralam Co-op opening

Pupils joined forces with Bob - the Minion character - and representatives from the Ronald McDonald House charity, Lostock Gralam Community Centre and Lostock Gralam FC as the ribbon was cut to declared the store open.

The Co-op is at Cheshire Business Park, is open between 6am and 11pm and has a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials.

There is an in-store bakery, ATM, Costa coffee dispenser and car parking.

Launch day activities at the store – located in Cheshire Avenue - included free face painting for children and a chance to take a picture with Bob – the Minion character.

There was free Fairtrade tea and coffee, food sampling and in-store competitions and prizes. There was also a new Tesla sports car on display as the store geared up for its first day.

A week of activities will follow, including a raffle to win a book of Co-op Saving Stamps, a cake sale to raise money for The Co-op’s charity partner, the British Red Cross and free sampling of The Co-op’s breakfast range.

Store manager Jordan Toal said: “The new store looks fantastic. We have had some great feedback, and our launch day went even better than we had hoped for with a superb reaction from customers and the community.

“This is an exciting time for the whole team – we are thrilled to open the Co-op’s newest food store and to be welcoming the community into their new local Co-op.

“We are confident the store will become an asset to the community, playing a part in local life and delivering a convenient shopping experience.”

The appointment of a Community Pioneer - Jacqueline Beasant – also underpins the Co-op’s commitment to making a difference in the local community.

Jacqueline is a member of the food store team, and will also work to foster involvement in community activities, such as local fundraising initiatives and working with local charities, schools and voluntary organisations to make a difference in the community.