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VIDEO EXCLUSIVE a sneak peek inside the new Sainsbury's store

We took a look around the new store with John Stevens, Alnwick Crier, checking out what the new store will bring to Alnwick after years of waiting.

With wide aisles, a customer friendly lay-out and a fresh clean look, the new store at Willowburn is set to be a success across the town.

Featuring a café serving snacks, cakes and Fairtrade coffee, as well as a bakery with freshly made bread each day, a delicatessen, fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh meat and fish and a huge selection of frozen goods the store has a lot to offer.

With an extensive range of TU clothing, an big CD and DVD selection, homeware and electrical appliances it is likely to be a welcome addition to the town, bringing back shoppers who previously went elsewhere.

There is also a range on own brand Fairtrade produce on offer along with local produce from Northumbria Larder.

Store Manager Debra Thurley said: "Our intention is to support the time and hopefully bring back some of the Alnwick shoppers driven elsewhere to other towns.
"We have got some ranges that will appeal to people which are different to what is available in Alnwick."

Staff colleagues are hard at work putting the finishing touches to the store before its grand opening on Thursday, March 13 at 9am.

Colleague Mandy Shotton, a member of the stock control team said: "It is a lovely store, we're thrilled with it. It looks really really good. Sainsbury's have given us lots of training and support it's been really good.
"We can't wait to come shopping here ourselves."

An array of disabled facilities are also available instore with disabled car parking is available as well as disabled toilets and trolleys, and two electronic disabled mobility scooters which baskets on the front for shopping.

A selection of reusable bags will be on offer to encourage customers to re-use bags and free bags for life will be given out at the grand opening.