A CO-OPERATIVE Food store was re-launched today (Thursday, August 7) following a £300,000 transformation.

The store in Park Road, Coxhoe, near Durham City, now features a larger bakery with extended ranges of fresh produce, ready meals and pizzas.

Members of staff at the store have been given additional training to enable them to provide expert advice and to help inspire customers with meal ideas.

Store manager John Woodard said: “I’m excited about welcoming shoppers into the new store.

“The Co-operative is a community retailer, and we are committed to playing an active role in local life, embracing the area’s community spirit.

“The store will be a hub for the local community, and customers will be able to find out what is going on locally, and learn more about how The Co-operative’s Community Fund can benefit local groups.”

The store has a community pioneer, Christine Rowe, appointed as part of a new programme that sees a member of the store team with an additional remit to foster a strong involvement in community activity.

Meanwhile, Co-operative Food store in Shiney Row, on Wearside, was also re-launched today following a £540,000 transformation.