A Whitchurch shopkeeper is looking forward to his new challenge of running a grocery store after its brand new re-opening.

Chris Jackson, 35, opened a new Costcutter with his wife Ann-Marie, 33, on Friday, completely renovating their former Bargain Booze store in Green End Parade.

There was a Caribbean steel drum band as a crowd gathered in the spring sunshine, with deputy mayor of Whitchurch Councillor Bev Duffy playing the VIP role to cut the ribbon.

Chris believes the shop is much-needed in that part of town.

"We've been here for around 17 years and used to have Bargain Booze," he said.

"It was a lot smaller but we've extended to the back and we've converted to a convenience store.

"It was 50/50 – we approached Costcutter about it and then they came back to us. We had been talking to Bargain Booze but that went on for a long time, so it was the right thing to do.

"I'm really looking forward to this. We want it to be a 'corner shop' type so it's nicely-placed. We want to be a convenience for people at this end of town."

Chris and Ann-Marie, who have been together for more than a decade, have taken the store on from his parents Kath and Martin although they are still helping.

Cllr Duffy was delighted to play the role of ribbon cutter.

She added: "I thank anyone that brings investment into the town and this looks a brilliant shop."

The new store will still sell alcohol, but also provides food and household goods. For more, call 01948 666897.