CROWDS queued up outside Runcorn’s long-awaited superstore on Friday.

the Mayor and Mayoress Cllr Ged Philbin and Ros Wong cut the opening ribbon.

Founder Chris Dawson said: “It was brilliant to have such a big crowd turn up.

“We are sure the store will be a welcome addition to Runcorn Shopping Centre.”

Around 80 jobs have been created at the flagship store left vacant after Tesco closed last April with the loss of 110 employees.

The store stocks a selection of items for the home and garden with aisles full of Christmas merchandise.

Paint, candles, wallpaper, cookery utensils, toys and gardening equipment are among items available in 16 different departments.

Store assistants spoke to The World as they put the finishing touches to the store.

Tammie Caldwell, 38, from Widnes, said: “It looks absolutely amazing.”

Marie Ives, 24, from Castlefields, added: “It’s brilliant. There’s a lot of excitement. People have been looking in the windows asking when we are opening.”

Matthew Dutton, 37, from Brookvale, said: “It has created a lot of jobs, just what Runcorn needs.”

Nikita Brown, 26, from Halton Village, added: “It’s brilliant and has given me good experience.

“It has created jobs and opportunities for people on work experience and students.”

Brian Ellson, 50, from The Grange, who will be replenishing the shelves, said: “I think a lot of people are dying to see it.”

Laura Atkins, 20, from Windmill Hill, said: “It’s been unbelievable seeing the transformation from empty shelves to a superstore in a week.”

Leigh Bellis, 22, from Halton Lodge and Craig Whitfield, 23, who stocked the DIY department, dressed up as Captain Range, the company’s mascot, to welcome shoppers.

Karl Clawley, manager of Runcorn Shopping Centre, said: “We are really pleased to welcome The Range and although it took a little longer than anticipated I’m sure visitors to the new 50,000 sq ft store will be happy with what has been delivered.

“It is also good news in helping create more jobs in the community.”