SCHOOLCHILDREN became the guests of honour as they cut the ribbon at their village supermarket’s re-opening.

The Co-op store in Knebworth had been closed for a week while a �320,000 makeover was carried out.

Pupils from nearby Knebworth Primary School were invited along on Thursday to see the store and received a cheque of �200.

Store manager Donna Smith handed over the donation for school funds to youngsters and headteacher Michael John. She said: “As a community retailer it is appropriate we involve the community in our special events and we are delighted our local school is playing a central role in the relaunch of our store.”

The store now has contemporary d�cor, new shelving, an eco-refrigeration system and a more shopper-friendly layout.

The emphasis will be on chilled and fresh foods with the range of fresh fruit and vegetables doubling and there will also be more in-store baked breads and pastries and a wider selection of chilled wines and beers.

Miss Smith added: “We provide a much valued service for the village and I’m confident our shoppers will be delighted with our improved store and wider selection of goods which will better meet all their daily grocery needs.”