THE opening date for a new Marks and Spencer store in a New Forest town has finally been confirmed.

M&S will open the doors on its foodhall in Station Road, New Milton, for the first time at 9am on Thursday, April 21.

The store will be led by manager Keith Caufield-Lawrence alongside his team of more than 50 members of staff.

Inside the brand-new 11,500 square foot shop, customers can expect a fresh-market feel with new fresh product displays full of produce grown by M&S Select Farmers, and bakers at the bigger-than-ever bakery section will be serving bread, along with breakfast pastries, the M&S Yumnuts and more.

Daily Echo: First look of the design for the new Marks & Spencer foodhall in Station Road, New Milton

Customers will also be able to make the most of convenient ways to pay, with plenty of checkouts for speedy service, and a mobile “Scan & Shop” option available via the M&S App and a new digital Click and Collect service.

Store manager Mr Caufield-Lawrence said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming the community to our brand-new New Milton M&S Foodhall.

“We’ve been delighted to see local customers getting excited about the development of the store and can’t wait to share what the new foodhall has to offer.

“Whether you’re looking for a convenient option for your big family food shop, a quick snack on the go or a restaurant quality meal with our Dine-In meal deal options – we’ve got you covered.”

Daily Echo: M&S branding went on the premises several months agoM&S branding went on the premises several months ago

Staff will be handing out 200 golden tickets to the first customers through the door.

Every golden ticket holder will be guaranteed a win – whether it’s a free bag of Percy Pigs or freshly baked cookies from the new M&S bakery, and to mark the occasion one lucky customer will win a £200 M&S voucher.

The foodhall will be open from 8am to 8pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays.

The store is still recruiting for job roles, which can be viewed on the M&S website.