THE news that a new £4.4m supermarket will to open in Evesham on the site of the old Somerfield store in Swan Lane has been welcomed as a boost to the local economy.

The German cut-price chain Aldi will move in after the site has been redeveloped, bringing work to local building contractors.

It is also hoped the store's policy of of sourcing local food will offer opportunities to regional producers.

Bread in some existing Aldi stores in Worcestershire is produced by a family owned business in the Midlands.

The news was welcomed by town centre manager Lew Hammond, who said that he was "delighted".

He said: "What we do and what we have done through the Market Town Partnership is to provide the conditions to attract inward investment. These companies look at Evesham and think: what a smart place to come to.

"This is the best news I have heard all year and I really hope it was a result of our hard work."

Mike Flanders, of the Vale of Evesham Commerce and Tourism Association, also welcomed the news.

He said: "I am pleased to hear that someone else is coming into the town centre. This can only be good news for all the traders here as it will attract

more people into the town.

"It will be competitive, but that's not a bad thing."

Aldi regional managing director Andreas Siegmann said: "We're really looking forward to bringing a new Aldi store to Evesham.

"Shoppers can expect some great offers and consistently competitive prices. We stock everything from everyday food and household items to luxury goods for special occasions."

Mr Siegmann defended the store's low-cost image, saying "We might be cheaper, but we don't compromise on quality.

"Our wines regularly win major awards, our quality is second to none and our range will surprise."