Sainsbury's is inviting local children to play a role at the launch of its new supermarket in Staplehurst.

The store is set to open on Wednesday, March 24, and the retailer is running a competition for children up to the age of 16 to submit artwork to be printed on a special commemorative bag to be given away on the day.

With only three weeks to go until the doors open, work is continuing to complete the car park and landscaping around the store, while inside shop-fitters are at work putting up shelves, signage and installing the checkouts.

The first 500 shoppers through the door on opening day will receive a commemorative, reusable shopping bag.

Children have until just 3pm on Monday (March 8) to submit a photograph of their suggested bag design to the store manager for judging.

But the supermarket plans to keep the name of the winner and the design secret until opening day.

Submissions should be emailed with the child’s name and age to: 2360M@sainsburys.co.uk.

The new supermarket will have an ATM, customer toilets, an Argos concession in the store, and parking for 171 cars.

Patrick Dunne, Sainsbury’s property director, said: "The store is coming on well and we can’t wait to unveil it to our customers.

"This is the first supermarket that we’re opening this year and we’re so appreciative of the support we’ve received from the local community."

Store manager Kwadwo Osei said: "I can’t wait to see what designs for the bag children come up with."

Staplehurst Parish Council chairman Cllr Paddy Riordan said: "It’s fantastic to see the store come together - it will be a real boost to our local economy.

"And I know many villagers are really going to want to be one of the lucky 500 to get a commemorative bag!"

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