CHRISTMAS came early for shoppers in Wombwell this week when they heard the former Kwik Save on High Street is set to open as a Co-op supermarket.

Staff, shoppers, councillors and Wombwell’s High Street Committee were all jubilant on hearing the confirmation that Co-op is to buy the store, currently Fresh Express, after months of rumours.

Store deputy manager Craig Stuart said: “I think the smile on my face says it all. We’ve been told Fresh Express will close on January 7 to be gutted and refurbished as a Co-op.

“We’re all really pleased. We’ve had uncertainty hanging over us for months. This won’t be like the old Co-op that closed down a few years ago. It’s going to be a new-look store, fully staffed and fully stocked.”

A Co-operative group spokesperson said: “The Co-operative is in negotiations to acquire the former Kwik Save store in Wombwell. All staff will be retained as part of the acquisition and are being kept fully informed about the progress of the negotiations.”

The three Wombwell councillors Margaret Morgan, Denise Wilde and Dick Wraith said the news was very good.

Coun Morgan said: “All I can say is thank the Lord. That is a fantastic Christmas present, especially for the people who don’t have cars and can’t get to the big supermarkets easily.