A gleaming new food store has taken its place on a street well-known for friendly neighbourhood service.

IPSWICH: A gleaming new food store has taken its place on a street well-known for friendly neighbourhood service.

The new Tesco Express store was officially opened on the spot previously occupied by The Racecourse pub in Nacton Road.

Nestled among a row of independent shops, the business has taken on staff from the surrounding area and attracted applicants through Ipswich's Job Centre Plus during the recruitment process.

The opening ceremony saw store manager Robin Williams present a �500 donation to St Elizabeth Hospice community fundraiser Rachael Mittell, who was invited to cut the ribbon to officially open the store with the obligatory pair of giant scissors.

Miss Mittell said: “We are delighted that St Elizabeth Hospice has benefited from the opening of the new store - we are so grateful for Tesco's support and their donation will make a difference.”

Tesco Express store manager Mr Williams said: “We were delighted to be able to support St Elizabeth Hospice as they do such fantastic work locally.

“We are so pleased that Rachael came to launch the new store, and join in the celebrations with us.

“My staff and I are really enjoying welcoming our customers into the new store and we hope that Tesco will become a key part of the local community.”

It is hoped the new Tesco will boost trade for all businesses in the area while serving shoppers looking for convenience.

The store will be open from 6am until 11pm, seven days a week, and has a bakery, cash machine, two self service tills and beers, wines and spirits.

Is another Tesco a good thing for Ipswich? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk