DRAG artist Alfie Ordinary cut the ribbon to officially open a new Co-op.

The Brighton-based performer wore a floral garment and carried a pair of mock scissors for the ceremony alongside staff at the store in London Road in Brighton.

As well as declaring the store open, Alfie Ordinary also did DJing on the opening day.

Ferhat Spurling, store manager of the new branch, said: “We have had a great response - the customers tell us they love it.

“It is a spacious, purpose-built new store with a great look and feel.

“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to launch Co-op’s newest store in London Road. 

“Our aim at the Co-op is to operate at the heart of local life and we are enjoying welcoming our members and customers into their new store. We have worked to create the range, choice, products and added services to create a really compelling offer to serve the community conveniently.”

As part of the launch day, a £750 donation of "dignity bags" for people facing homelessness was made to Arch Healthcare in Brighton by the Co-op.

The bags support a stay in hospital without the basics and include toiletries, soap, shower gel, pyjamas, underwear and female hygiene products.

The new store has opened at the same location as a previous Co-op that was demolished to make way for new student accommodation.