The newly-refurbished Co-op store in Prudhoe opened yesterday following a £1.7m investment which will support 36 jobs in the local community.

The new 12,000 sq ft store on Oakfield Terrace will run on 100 per cent renewable electricity.

It will open between 8am-10pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-4pm on Sundays.

The store includes customer car parking and a bakery alongside an improved focus on fresh, healthy produce, a Costa Coffee machine and John Lewis Click & Collect.

Hot food, ready meals and pizzas, wines, free-from and vegan products, Fairtrade, food-to-go and, everyday essentials are also available.

Students in Prudhoe who are TOTUM cardholders can receive a 10 per cent discount off groceries at the Co-op.

An online click and collect and home delivery service is available through Co-op’s own online shop – coop.co.uk/shop

Iain Watt, Co-op Store Manager, said: "We’re really excited to have launched the new Co-op store in Prudhoe. The reception we’ve received from locals has already been so heart-warming! The store has a fantastic modern look and increased range - we are very much looking forward to serving the local community."

Steff Martin, Co-op Regional Manager, added: "Co-op is committed to connecting communities and making a difference locally, we have worked to develop the range, choice, products and services that will create a really compelling offer in the area."

Co-op now donates 2 per cent to community causes every time a Member swipes their Membership card when buying own-branded products.

More information about Co-op Membership is available by visiting https://www.coop.co.uk/membership