OLYMPIC rower Jessica Eddie has cut the ribbon at the re-opening of a discount supermarket.

Crowds of shoppers gathered as the silver medallist did the honours at the Aldi store in Peterlee.

She was joined by store manager Tasha Hennells, and to mark the occasion the first 30 shoppers were rewarded with a complimentary bag fresh fruit and vegetables.

Ms Hennells said: “We would like to thank everyone who has been a part of making today so special. It has been great to have Jessica Eddie join us in our celebrations and help us greet our customers.”

Following the reopening, Ms Eddie, from Durham, delivered an inspirational assembly to the children of Seascape Primary School, where she addressed the importance of exercise and healthy eating. Jessica also presented the children with a donation of fresh fruit and snacks from the new Aldi store, to help fuel the children throughout the school day.

The Team GB star said: “I’ve had such a lovely morning. It’s great to see the work that Aldi is doing in the local community and I really enjoyed welcoming the customers through the doors.

“I loved taking the assembly with the children at Seascape Primary school. You never know there may be some future Team GB athletes among them.”