A SUPERMARKET has reopened following a devastating fire.

The Co-op in Hurstpierpoint High Street opened its doors to customers on Wednesday with help from children of St Lawrence Primary School, who were on hand to cut the ribbon.

The store has had a £1 million refit.

In June, shop owners in the street told The Argus they were considering closing down because of a lack of footfall and parking difficulties in the area.

The drop in customers was attributed to a fire last September in a nearby pet shop which forced the Co-op to close.

It opened temporarily in the nearby Hurst Community Charity Shop, where it sold a limited amount of goods.

Andy Wadey, Co-op’s store manager in Hurstpierpoint, said: “We are delighted to have undertaken such a significant investment in Hurstpierpoint and to unveil a great new look which we are confident will enable us to better serve people in the area.”

The primary school also received a cheque for £500 as part of launch day celebrations.

Hurstpierpoint’s new store is set to bring a funding boost for local good causes through its membership scheme.

Members receive a five per cent reward on the purchase of own-brand products and services, with a further one per cent donated to good causes.

Last weekend, the store handed funds to Courtmeadow Riding for Disabled, Hurst Festival and Sculpture Gardens Hurstpierpoint as part of second round pay outs from its local community fund.

The new Co-op has an in-store bakery and self-service tills.

The shop manager said there will be a focus on fresh, healthy foods, meal ideas, award-winning wines, greeting cards and everyday essentials.

Keith Macfarlane, Co-op’s area manager, said: “The Co-op is moving forward with a clear purpose and momentum and our ambition is to ensure the store is a local hub and an asset for the community.

“We want shoppers to know that they can become a co-owner and member of their Co-op.

“Our members make a difference locally and simply by swiping their membership card when they shop with us they are raising much-needed funding for organisations in their area who contribute to improving local life.”

There are a number of offers and promotions in the store to mark its re-launch.

Students holding a NUS extra card will receive a ten per cent discount at the store.

For more Mid Sussex stories visit theargus.co.uk.