Shoppers queue for Range opening

SHOPPERS formed a ‘huge’ queue for the opening of a home and garden store at Runcorn Shopping Centre.

Store mascot Captain Range was on hand to greet bargain hunters at The Range.

Halton mayor Ged Philbin and consort Ros Wong cut the ribbon.

The store opened in the former Tesco unit.

A spokesman for company said customers waited in a huge queue to explore its departments.

Opening events were due to continue over the weekend with free facepainting and crafts demonstrations.

Chris Dawson, The Range’s owner and founder, said: “It was brilliant to have such a big crowd turn up to celebrate the opening.

“We are sure that the new store will be a welcome addition to Runcorn Shopping Centre.”

Karl Clawley, Runcorn Shopping Centre manager, said: “I’m sure visitors to the new 50,000 sq ft store will be happy with what has been delivered.

“It is also good news in helping create more jobs to the community.

“In the past few months we have opened a bigger New Look, welcomed Select Fashion as well as welcome two independent traders, Icon Fashion House & Vicky’s Cards into the shopping centre.

“We continue to work hard to deliver a shopping centre fit for our local community to enjoy.”