'CORONAVIRUS hero' Dale Preece-Kelly cut the ribbon on Kidderminster's brand new B&M store in Spennells Valley Road.

The town's second branch of the bargain retailer opened its doors to customers for the first time on Saturday (June 27), bringing 66 jobs to the former Homebase site.

Kidderminster Shuttle: 'Coronavirus hero' Dale Preece-Kelly receives a voucher at the opening of Kidderminster's new B&M store'Coronavirus hero' Dale Preece-Kelly receives a voucher at the opening of Kidderminster's new B&M store

Wolverley resident Dale Preece-Kelly was nominated by readers to be the "coronavirus hero" to officially open the store and receive a £250 voucher to spend inside.

When the country went into lockdown, Dale set about creating a support group to help residents of Kidderminster.

Kidderminster Shuttle: A look inside Kidderminster's brand new B&M shopA look inside Kidderminster's brand new B&M shop

He recruited more than 270 local volunteers who help to support people who are self-isolating and need essentials picking up, or just need a chat when they are feeling lonely.

Speaking after the launch, Dale said: "I was speechless and over whelmed when I was told the news, it’s lovely that my local community have nominated me as a hero and I'm very grateful for it.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The soft furnishings aisle at Kidderminster's new B&MThe soft furnishings aisle at Kidderminster's new B&M

“I think it’s really important to have a strong community spirit during times like these and the support the group has given, has helped so many people in the local area and pulled residents together.

“I can’t thank the team of volunteers and zone leaders enough – I couldn’t do it without them.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The team at Kidderminster's brand new B&MThe team at Kidderminster's brand new B&M

"The group will remain active and we hope to continue providing help to residents on an ongoing basis, even after coronavirus has died down.”

The new B&M shop sells a range of branded products, including toys, food and drink, pet range, health and beauty and homewares. The store also boasts its own garden centre, selling hundreds of plant varieties.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The garden centre at the new B&M in KidderminsterThe garden centre at the new B&M in Kidderminster

The branch at the Swan Centre remains open for business.