THE doors were thrown open for the first time to the M&S Simply Food in Evesham Shopping Park today.

A traditional ribbon cutting marked the occasion and the stores first customers celebrated the day with a glass of Prosecco, music from an in-store DJ and an exclusive shopper competition.

Sean Phillips, Store Manager, was on hand to greet everyone alongside more than 60 members of staff, and Mark Goodge, Mayor of Evesham.

Mr Phillips, said: “After working hard to prepare the store for its opening, we were thrilled to open our doors in Evesham Shopping Park this morning. There were crowds of shoppers at the opening, eager to see all that their new M&S Simply Food has to offer.”

Throughout the day 38 customers won a share of £1,000 of gift cards to spend in-store.

Patricia Field from Honeybourne was one of the first shoppers through the doors. She said: “I’m delighted that M&S is back in Evesham. I’ve been waiting a long time for this, and the new store is in a great location. I’m sure it’ll be a huge success.”

The store also offers Shop Your Way, allowing customers to order either online or in-store from the full product range, including clothing, with free next day collection from store .

The shop will be open between 8am and 8pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am until 4pm on Sundays.