YOUNGSTERS from a school council were asked to cut the tape to officially open a new Co-op store built on the site of a former chicken farm.

Pupils from Overmonnow Primary School in Monmouth popped across the road to take part in the ceremony at the retail giant’s newest food store in Rockfield Road last week.

The opening on Thursday, September 14, in a brand new purpose-built unit followed a £550,000 investment by the Co-op, creating 15 jobs.

Students joined Monmouthshire county councillor Jamie Treharne (Con, Overmonnow) to help launch the store, which includes its own on-site bakery.

It marks a return to the town for the Co-op, which operated a supermarket out of the Oldway Centre off the town’s high street until May 2016.

Store manager Steven Beddoes said: “We are delighted to have made such a significant investment in Monmouth. We have received great feedback about the Co-op returning to the area.

“We are delighted that the school’s head and deputy head boy and girl, and newly-elected pupil council, were among the guests of honour.

“Our work with primary schools includes helping to promote healthy, active lifestyles and contributing to the curriculum on topics such as co-operation, ethical trading and Fairtrade.”

Co-op members benefitting from the retailer’s rewards scheme can nominate one per cent of their spending on one of three good causes, including initially Monmouth Comprehensive School Boat Club, which is raising funds for a new boat for pupils to compete at the British Junior Championships.

Two new buildings were built on the site of the derelict former chicken farm as part of a £1.25m development by Henry Boot, with a combined floor space of 8,150sq feet.

The Co-op is occupying one of the buildings, with three other businesses, including a vet’s practice, set to occupy units in the second building. A pelican crossing costing £16,000 is also being provided on Rockfield Road.