A MAJOR retailer has made the village of Wylam its new home, despite local opposition to its plans.

A Co-op food store opened on the former Wylam Garage site on Main Street last Thursday.

The £475,000 investment has created 14 jobs and the store offers an in-store bakery, fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials.

When the plans were first announced, some objectors fixed signs to their properties in protest.

Some people were worried that the store would have a negative impact on other traders in the village, while concerns were also raised about road safety for peoplecrossing the main road to reach the shop.

But the Co-op said it had received a good response to the opening of the store.

Manager Kate Forster said: “We are delighted to have made such a significant investment in Wylam – we have received a great response and are looking forward to welcoming the community into their new Co-op.

“The new store looks great and it really is an exciting time for the whole team.”

The store will also deliver a funding boost for local good causes through its membership scheme.

Co-op members receive a five per cent reward on purchases of own-brand products and services, with a further one per cent going to local causes .

Children from Wylam First School attended the official launch last week, where they were presented with a cheque for £1,000 from staff at the Co-op, while Wylam Community Orchard received a £250 boost to their funds as part of the activities to mark the launch.

There were also offers and promotions in the new store to mark its launch, and students in the area who hold an NUS card will receive a 10 per cent discount off their groceries.