A NEW Co-op food store in Ilkley, has created eight new jobs and was officially opened by Councillor Anne Hawkesworth yesterday.

The opening of the store on Bolton Bridge Road, which represents a £465,000 investment, coincides with the Co-op’s new membership offer. The unique scheme sees Co-op members receive a five per cent reward on purchases of Co-op own-branded products and services, with a further one per cent going to local causes and groups to make a difference in their community.

Groups supported by the Ilkley store include the Addingham Scout Group, Ilkley & District Good Neighbours and The Clarke Foley Centre.

Members of the Co-op can choose which of these causes they wish to support online. Money will be raised over a six month period with the groups estimated to share £5,500.

The store will also highlight its community pioneer role where two members of the food store team, will work to foster involvement in community activities, from local fundraising initiatives to helping to understand and develop solutions to meet community needs including support for the British Red Cross, The Co-op’s new charity partnership which will help to tackle social isolation and loneliness in local communities.

Daniel Beaumont, manager of the store, said: “We are thrilled to have made such a significant investment in Ilkley and delighted that we have a fantastic new food store with which to serve the community – it is an exciting time for the whole team."