Mayor of Dover Cllr Sue Jones has officially opened the new Morrisons store in Dover.

Hundreds of people had gathered outside the store as the clock ticked towards the opening time of 9am on Monday, January 25.

Customers were soon searching the shelves to see how products and prices compared with other supermarkets in the area.

Regional director Mike Zamiteas, said: "The new store means we can offer the people of Dover more fresh choice at great value, with the great service and quality they’d expect from Morrisons."

The manager of the new store is Howard Saxby, 41, who has worked for Morrisons for 22 years, starting as a grocery sales assistant before progressing through the ranks to store manager.

He has experience of managing other stores, including Croydon and Walderslade.

Mr Saxby said: “I am delighted to be managing the new Dover store. Staff have been really busy getting the store ready for opening day, fitting out the fresh food counters and ensuring that all staff are fully trained and ready to serve our first customers."

While preparing for business, the bakery's ovens had to be fired up and staff baked hundreds of loaves and rolls which were donated to the local soup kitchen.

The store, at Charlton Green, has provided jobs for nearly 300 people. It was one of three new Morrisons stores opened in the country on Monday.