A KEY element in the multi-million pound redevelopment of Tonbridge town centre slots into place on Tuesday, November 19, when Waitrose opens its new supermarket to shoppers.

The grocery chain, owned by the John Lewis Partnership, has spent the past 18 months creating its new store in Sovereign Way.

It began recruiting staff this summer, with more than 200 profit-sharing jobs on offer, and is now fulfilling a promise to be open in time for Christmas.

Branch manager Melvyn MacDonald said: "Waitrose aims to provide a quality service to the local community and to become as much a part of the community as any traditional High Street business."

Features of the new store include a Quick Check and Quick Pay system, allowing customers to scan, pay, pack and leave without the need to negotiate check-out queues.