NATIONAL retailer Screwfix has given a vote of confidence to Malvern's economic future by opening its latest store in the town.

The company's Malvern store manager Adrian Saunders explained: “We chose to open a new store in Great Malvern because it’s a growing town with a great trade presence. Many of our customers already shopped with us at our Worcester and Tewkesbury stores and are delighted to see us here, as they no longer have to travel so far.

“Our opening week celebration attracted hundreds of customers and we are looking forward to welcoming many more local people over the coming months. We have received fantastic support from the local community, who have all shown a keen interest in the store. It has been extremely exciting that we have already attracted repeat business and we are all enjoying getting to know new customers.”

The store on Enigma Business Park in Betony Road has created 14 new jobs and is part of the company’s nationwide store expansion plan, which saw the retailer open 60 new UK stores in 2014 with a further 60 to be added in 2015.

Another aspect of Screwfix’s nationwide stores initiative is that the company is looking to become actively involved with local charities through its own registered charity arm The Screwfix Foundation, which supports local charities and community projects with donations for projects involving fixing, repairing or maintaining buildings. Screwfix staff get directly involved in helping community projects and host charity fundraising events within the stores.

Local registered charities can apply for funding from The Screwfix Foundation and can visit Malvern Screwfix branch to pick up a Screwfix Foundation Leaflet for more information. Alternatively they can download an application form from www.screwfixfoundation.com