ENTHUSIASTIC traders and residents were out in force as a brand new bargain store opened its doors in Malvern.

Discount chain B&M has officially opened on Church Walk in the heart of Malvern, taking over from the former Wilkos branch that closed late last year.

It underwent a comprehensive internal and external refurbishment programme before its grand opening on Saturday, May 4.

People turned up in their droves to welcome the new store to the town, which has been greatly received by the community.

Cllr Beverley Nielsen, economic development Portfolio Holder for Malvern Hills District Council, said: “It is great news to see B&M opening in Malvern and traders on Church Walk have been enthusiastically welcoming the brand to the town.

"Footfall has shown a bounce since the store opened and Church Walk traders expect it to continue to make a real difference to the footfall there.

"Many residents were disappointed when Wilko closed and will no doubt be pleased to see B&M open.”

The opening of the store was also an opportunity for other businesses to take advantage of the large crowds, with Dirty D's offering out doughnuts and coffees.

Craig Johnson, owner of Dirty D's, said the place was "rammed" as people gathered to hunt for bargains around the new store.

"The place was rammed, which made it a very busy day for us," said Mr Johnson.

"It seems to have been well received.

"It was nice to see Church Walk busy for the first time in a while since Wilkos closed down in September last year.

"From 9am it was very busy, you could barely walk around the aisles it was that crowded.

"I've not heard anything negative said about it.

"It's one of those stores that has everything that you want - it's very popular."

Mr Johnson said his batch of doughnuts that he was selling on the day sold out by midday.

"We were sold out of all of our stock by midday," he added.

"I had to bake another load to sell the remainder of the day.

"We did the same for the following day and again we sold out by the afternoon."