A CO-OPERATIVE Food store in east Durham is being transformed with a £420,000 investment.

The store in Middle Street, Blackhall, near Peterlee, will have a new look and is aimed at turning it into a hub for the community as well as a place for shoppers to pick up everything they need for meals.

Pupils from St Joseph’s RC Primary School will cut the ribbon to the new-look store at 10am on Thursday, October 9.

The in-store bakery is being increased, and there will be extended ranges of fresh produce, ready meals and pizzas.

Staff at the store are receiving additional training to enable them to provide expert advice and to help inspire customers with meal ideas.

Store manager Glenn Cowley said: “I’m excited about welcoming shoppers into the new store.

“The transformation will be amazing, and I’m sure our customers will enjoy shopping in the new environment, which will provide them with a convenient location to pick up everything they need to create inspirational and tasty meals.

“The Co-operative is a community retailer, and we are committed to playing an active role in local life, embracing the area’s community spirit. The store will be a hub for the local community, and customers will be able to find out what is going on locally, and learn more about how The Co-operative’s Community Fund can benefit local groups.”