CROWDS of people queued outside Southend’s newest superstore to get the first glimpse inside.

Leading leisure, home and garden store the Range opened at Southend Queensway for excited shoppers who had waited outside from 5.30am.

Deputy mayor councillor Christopher Walker cut the ribbon and declared the store open.

He said: “It’s a golden opportunity for Southend. It’s a good store with good stock. I’ve been in and had a look around myself and from the length of the queue people are willing to spend.

“Thank goodness we’re getting a bit of life into the middle of town again.”

The Range celebrated the event with Heart Radio, which entertained shoppers with an in-store broadcast.

Store manager Justin Ireland welcomed the crowds accompanied by store mascot Captain Range who handed out balloons to children.

Mr Ireland said: “What a day it’s going to be. The queue was unbelievable – people have been waiting outside since 5.30am.

There was an amazing turnout for the opening and everyone seems very keen. It took about ten minutes for everyone in the queue to get into the building.

“So many people have said they’re so glad it’s in the area and it’s just what Southend needs. I think the store is going to be really popular.”

The new store, which was a derelict B&Q warehouse before it was completely revamped, has created about 150 jobs in the area.

It offers more than 65,000 products across 16 departments, including clothing, arts and crafts, pet supplies, garden, gifts and toys, homewares, furniture and DIY.

Until Friday, December 13, all shoppers can get £10 off purchases if they spend £50, by picking up a special voucher, available in store.