A THOUGHT struck me about the development of the new Tesco superstore in Stourport – and it is all good news.

Historically, when Tesco (or any supermarket) opens a superstore, the local community bemoans the impact on local business.

Here's where Stourport differs. And where Stourport gains.

The fact is that we've seen a number of shop closures in the town in recent years. Woolworths, the electrical shop on the corner of New Street/High Street et al. Woolworths in particular.

So shops have already closed before Tesco arrives.

And that is the good news. Tesco in Stourport isn't going to close shops. It's going to replace shops that have already closed.

Better than that, Tesco is going to keep people in Stourport and local businesses will, by consequence, benefit.

All hail Tesco. No, seriously.

JULIAN WILLIAMS Stourport