A £90m shopping centre opened on the outskirts of York this morning (April 10), which includes a £15m John Lewis store.

The Vangarde shopping complex at Monks Cross alos includes a Next and Marks & Spencers, which is one of the greenest M&S stores in Britain  - with two exterior living walls planted with grass, 600 rooftop solar panels, rainwater recycling and recycled materials used throughout the building and it fixtures and fittings.

By the time the doors of John Lewis opened at 9am, more than 100 people were queuing outside.

Andy Street, managing director of John Lewis, said: “York has long been a sought after location for us and we’re delighted to be able to expand our reach to customers across the Yorkshire region, providing them with more convenient access to our inspiring products and great service.

"We’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community here in York.”