Scores of shoppers queued outside the new Central England Co-operative store in Godmanchester in the hope they would get a lucky golden ticket to mark the doors opening for the first time.
Niccolas Charles, 27, who lives nearby, was the first in the queue and was the winner of a 49 inch wide screen TV which was up for grabs in the opening day prizes.
The new store, at the Bearscroft housing development, is part of a £560,000 investment by Central England Co-op and has created 23 new jobs.
Niccolas said he was amazed when he unwrapped his golden ticket and found he had won the TV.
“I was first in the queue at 7.30am for the golden ticket and was so happy to find out I won the television,” he said.
“I live just around the corner and think the shop is really, really lovely. I am so happy to have been part of the opening and won the top prize.”
Other golden ticket winners took home gift vouchers and chocolate bars.
Store manager Joel Mattless said: “Our team were so excited to finally allow our members and customers to see our new store. The store looks fantastic and already customers have been making many positive comments about how it looks and the different products and services now available.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank customers for their patience during the move, it has been long-awaited, but hopefully everyone will enjoy the store as much as we do.
“All of us here at Godmanchester store are proud to be part of such a great community and are looking forward to welcoming all customers, old and new, to come and enjoy our new food store.”
Pupils from Huntingdon Primary School were on hand to cut the ribbon and declare the new store open.
The store will be open from 7am to 10pm, Monday to Sunday, and has been equipped with energy efficient refrigeration and LED lighting to minimise its impact on the environment. A lifesaving defibrillator has been installed through cash from the 5p carrier bag levy.
In addition to food and drink, the store also has Paypoint, Collect Plus, foreign currency, parking and a cash machine.
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