SUPERMARKET giant Morrisons’ newest store opened its doors in Wroughton at a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday morning.

Plans to build the new Morrisons M Local store on the site of the former Three Tuns pub had caused concern among residents ever since the company first lodged an interest in converting the venue last summer.

Yet the end result was praised by villagers who appreciated the chain’s efforts to preserve some of the inn’s most historic features.

Jane Lane, a campaigner at the heart of the successful Kings Farm Wood appeal, was invited to cut the ribbon.

“I think it will blend into the community and add something to it,” she said. “The fact that it has kept a bit of its character is a big plus.”

The store has created 20 jobs in the village.

Parish council chairman Paul Hurst said: “The plans for a shop were upsetting for a few of the locals especially those overlooking it. There were highways issues and it still might be a problem. “But they listened to the parish council and put railings in and it has created some employment. They also kept some of the features of the public house which is good.”

Josh Davies, Morrisons M Local manager, said: “We are hoping to be a part of this tight-knit community. We went out last Tuesday to introduce ourselves to the community and people have been welcoming. The response from the village has been very positive.”