A STORE is to reopen following a £420,000 revamp - with the creation of three new jobs and a community pioneer.

The Co-op in Stokesley has been closed for two weeks while it has undergone an extensive refurbishment.

The expansion, which has cost nearly half a million pounds, has resulted in the creation of three new jobs. The store will also be testing out a new role for the co-operative by employing a Community Pioneer, Jane Bradshaw.

She will be getting involved in local projects in Stokesley, such as fundraising campaigns and fostering closer links between the store and the surrounding community.

Lee Baldwin, manager of the new-look store, said: “We are thrilled to have made such a significant investment in Stokesley and delighted that we have a fantastic new food store with which to serve the community – it is an exciting time for the whole team.

“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 is due to be reopened at 10am tomorrow (Friday, November 27) by pupils from Stokesley Primary School.