SCHOOL children from Bromsgrove are to be guests of honour at the launch of the Co-op’s latest food store.

On Thursday (December 3) youngsters from Chadsgrove School, in Meadow Road, will cut the ribbon at the Catshill store and declare it officially open to the community.

The store, in Gibbs Lane, is a £560,000 investment by the Co-op and has created 15 new jobs, including a community pioneer role who will work to promote fundraising in the area.

Yasmin Millward, community pioneer, will also present Chadsgrove School with a £200 donation on the day.

Kerry Preedy, manager of the new Co-op, said: “We are delighted to have made such a significant investment in Catshill and to launch The Co-op’s latest food store – we are thrilled that the school could join us to share in our special day, the store looks fantastic and, it really is an exciting time for the whole team.

"We are looking forward to welcoming customers of the Co-op old and new into the store, and to serving the local community.

"The Co-op is investing to transform and grow its convenience business, enhancing the in-store experience while lowering the price of everyday essentials.

"We are confident that the new store will be a real asset to the community, enabling shoppers to pick up delicious food conveniently and, as a community retailer and a co-operative, it will play its part in local life too."

The Co-op focusses on fresh, healthy foods and will also have an in-store bakery, ATM and dedicated car parking.

There will be offers and promotions in and around the store to mark its launch.