THIS Wednesday will see the opening of of a new B&M store in Runcorn providing almost 40 jobs for local people.

Staff at the Trident Retail Park store were asked to nominate a charity they think deserves VIP treatment for the work they do for the local community.

They chose the team from Mind who will be taking centre stage to officially unveil the store alongside deputy mayor Cllr Chris Rowe.

The charity provides services to support people suffering with mental health issues within the community.

This can include one-to-one support, befriending, social groups and activities as well as one-off events, open sessions and training courses.

As well as opening the new store, the charity will also receive £250 worth of B&M vouchers.

Store manager David Concannon said: “The team from Mind really stood out for us as they go the extra mile for local people in the community, we wanted to give them some VIP treatment as a thank you for all the hard work they do.

“We hope that our donation can help them to continue the great work they do.”

The original store closed last Friday, May 17, and the former Bargain Buy has undergone a comprehensive internal and external make-over.

It currently employs 19 staff - but the bigger space has created an additional 20 new jobs for local people.

B&M Runcorn was previously based at Halton Lea Shopping Centre before moving to Trident Retail Park.