SHOPPERS delighted at the opening of a popular high street clothing store in Chelmsford.


The ribbon was cut at the Primark store in the High Chelmer shopping centre at 9am on Thursday and it did not take long for items to fly off the shelves.


Scores of people queued outside wanting to be the first to grab hold of the merchandise inside the store which has become popular in recent years due to their budget clothing and accessories.


One of the first people inside was 71-year-old Heather Elliott who felt it was about time Chelmsford had a Primark.


Mrs Elliott said: “This is actually the first time I have ever been in a Primark, but whenever I watch the TV the fashion guru’s always talk about the quality of the clothing’s price and style.


“I am a bit worried about how this store could effect other shops in the High Street as it will be very popular.


“But Chelmsford is a city now and I think it is great that a place like Chelmsford finally has a Primark of it’s own.”


The 40,900sq ft store which is split over two floors has taken 11 weeks to construct and is the Irish-based company’s 241st shop to open worldwide and has created 238 jobs.


Kevin Brown, the store’s manager, said the staff are ready for the influx of customers.


Mr Brown said: “We are all absolutely delighted to be opening at last as a lot of hard work has gone in over the last few months to make sure everything is perfect for when the shoppers come in.


“Everyone working here is so enthusiastic about the opening and I am sure that will transcend to the service customers get.”


Speaking before the ribbon cutting, Primark’s HR and business development director Breege O’Donoghue said the store in Chelmsford will be a great one for the company.


She said: “Primark’s investment here shows the company’s overall confidence in the economy of the city.


“It is a proud day for us as we celebrate the opening of this, our newest store.”