BROADWAY's first supermarket, which opened its doors to the public last week, has been given a cautious welcome from the local Traders' Association.

"I feel very strongly that there is room for everyone," wrote Dottie Friedli in the January issue of the group's newsletter.

"If the public stay loyal and Warner Budgens behave in an ethical fashion we can all benefit."

Ms Friedli added: "I think we are all hoping for good things from this store and are keeping our fingers crossed that...will provide all the things we want from a supermarket but not hurt the small shops we know and love.

"A tall order perhaps, but it should be perfectly possible for those of us who shop here to enjoy both worlds."

Crowds gathered outside the new store in The Russells last Friday for the official opening of the store by local businessman Guy Warner.

He said: "Budgens is a real champion of independent retailing, delivering a superb range of fresh foods six days a week.

"We offer a genuine alternative to out-of-town superstores and we aim to offer out customers the highest levels of personal and friendly service."