KENDAL'S new B&M store is to open bright and early tomorrow morning (Thursday).

The value homewares and groceries chain has invited the team from homeless charity Manna House to officially unveil the new shop at 8am, at South Lakeland Retail Park.

More than 45 jobs have been created at the refurbished former NEXT fashion store, near Matalan and Morrisons, says B&M.

Last-minute finishing touches are being made today as the shelves are stocked with Christmas gifts, toys, food and drink, homewares, health and beauty, and pet products.

New colleagues at Kendal were asked to nominate a deserving local charity to officially open the store and receive £250-worth of B&M vouchers. They chose Manna House, and Kendal's deputy mayor Cllr Alvin Finch will also be present at the opening ceremony.

Kendal store manager Mike Gibson said: "The team from Manna House really stood out for us as they go the extra mile for local homeless people in the community. We wanted to give them some VIP treatment as a thank you for all the hard work they do.

"We hope our donation can help them continue the great work they do."

Mike added: "Our new colleagues have been working really hard to get the store ready for opening day. We can’t wait to get the doors open on Thursday and show customers their brand new B&M."