Widnes Vikings' player of the year was on hand to help open the town's new Wickes DIY store at the weekend, with the company also announcing a sponsorship deal with the club.

The retail chain officially move in to the new premises on Bowers Retail Park on Earle Road recently. The site had previously been the home of  B&M which itself recently moved across the way to the former Range building on Dennis Road.

On hand to cut the ribbon was players' and coaches' player of the year Joe Edge, who was joined by Halton Mayor and Consort Cllr Val and Cllr Stan Hill, with the store opening to the public for the first time on Friday, October 13.

Vikings also announced a new sponsorship deal with Wickes for the 2024 season, with branding for the new store set to feature on the club’s new jerseys next season.

Cutting the ribbon to declare the store officially open alongside the Mayor, Joe Edge said: "Wickes are a company known internationally and I think having their branding on board, with how big they are, is a huge positive and can really help the club.

“This store will attract lots of people both within and outside Widnes, and with the club advertised around here, any potential new fans might be more encouraged to pop over the road and watch a game!”

The Mayor added: "(It was) a pleasure this morning to cut the ribbon to officially open the new Wickes Widnes store. We wish you the best of luck and success for the future in your new premises. It was nice to be shown around and meet with the team."

Wickes has also donated garden materials via the Wickes Community Programme to the Wonky Garden, a local community garden based on Dundalk Road at Ditton Community Centre. The garden is open to visitors of all ages to explore and enjoy nature-based activities.

Wickes Property Director, Sarah Tait, added: “We are thrilled to be opening a new Wickes store in Widnes. The new store will offer residents of Widnes and the surrounding areas a wide range of home improvement products, services, and expert advice from our knowledgeable staff and we look forward to meeting our new customers”