A STORE in a former mining village has re-opened following a £630,000 makeover.

The revamped Co-op, in Easington Colliery, will have a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas and essentials and also features new self-service check outs.

A new-look for the Co-op will also bring a funding boost for local community groups through its new membership scheme.

Members receive a five per cent reward on purchases of own-branded products and services, with a further one per cent going directly to local causes to make a difference in the community.

Community groups in the Easington Colliery area set to benefit are Easington Colliery Band, Easington Colliery Social Welfare Centre and Easington Village Luncheon Millennium Club.

Store manager Mark Algar said: “We are delighted to have made such a significant investment in our Easington Colliery store, it has a great new look and we are looking forward to re-launching and serving the community.

“The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum and our ambition is to establish the store as a local hub, a real asset for the community. It is an exciting time for the whole team.”

Michael Boucher, area manager for the Co-op, added: “The return to our ‘clover leaf’ design logo, first used in the 1960’s, aims to re-establish the Co-op as a centre for the community, and we want shoppers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op.

“We are also giving back to the community.”

For further information about Co-op membership and the Local Community Fund visit www.coop.co.uk/membership.