SHOPPERS were spoilt for choice as another budget supermarket opened in Colchester - a Lidl in Gosbecks Road.

Customers queued for the shop launch at 8am, which included an official ribbon-cutting followed by face painting for children, free food samples and offers on bacon, prawns and cheddar cheese.

About 40 staff will be employed at the 2,088sqm site, formerly occupied by the Colchester Wine Company.

The supermarket will open from 7am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

Colin Rimmer, Lidl UK’s regional head of property, said: “We would like to thank all those who have played a part in bringing this new Lidl store to Colchester.

“It is wonderful for us to be able to create more jobs and investment opportunities in the area.

“We can’t wait to start serving the community.”

Lidl’s opening follows the launch of Aldi in Cowdray Avenue last week.