A SUPERMARKET is undergoing a major makeover, but is still open for business.

Kwik Save, behind Chester-le-Street's St Cuthbert's Walk shopping centre, is having a £100,000 refit as part of a national refurbishment programme by the chain's owners Somerfield.

Work started two weeks ago and is due to be completed on Tuesday, May 1.

"We haven't had to close as the work is being done at night,'' said store manager Derek Sayer.

"Initially we were going to close on one day, a Sunday, but Sunday is one of our busiest trading days.

"Building work has gone on through the night and it has worked a treat. We didn't want any disruption to the customers.

"We are ripping out all of the interior. New departments are being put in and everything is getting revamped.

"The new-look store will be totally customer-focused, giving customers a better environment. It will be absolutely beautiful when it is ready."

The store, which has been a Kwik Save since 1992, has 33 employees.