DIY and home improvement store Wickes threw open its doors in Cirencester on the weekend, and staff have planned more festivities for the upcoming bank holiday.

This weekend, visitors to the new store in Love Lane will be treated to a glass of fizz, canapes and 15 per cent off everything from Friday, May 1 to bank holiday Monday. Those in store on the Saturday afternoon will also be able to meet and have their photo taken with the iconic Dulux dog.

Wickes Cirencester opened officially last Saturday with Powells School student Jaden Chandanam cutting the ribbon. He won a competition after being asked to design a kitchen, which Wickes deputy manager Chris Walker said was "imaginative and very detailed". Jaden also won £50 worth of Toys R Us vouchers. Runner up Aaron Moore, also from Powells, won a £20 voucher.

"The soft launch opening went really well," said Chris. "We were overwhelmed by the positive feedback we were getting from the local residents. Many of which were saying they have been waiting years for a Wickes to come into the local area, which was amazing to hear.

"We were also surprised by the number of customers we had, we deliberately didn't advertise much for this first weekend, but it turned out to be a an amazing day and half of Cirencester seemed to show up."

The shop boasts a new kitchen and bathroom design centre with professional design consultants to provide friendly advice to customers.

Store manager at Wickes James Goodridge said: "We’ve designed the store to make it easy to shop for your home improvement project - the layout will help guide you to everything that you need for your project, in one visit.

"You’ll find inspirational room sets, worktops, appliances, baths and taps on display and our expert design consultants will be on hand to help you plan your dream space.

"Our store provides the area with a go-to destination for quality products that offer real value for money and cater for a variety of DIY needs. We’re confident that the new store will provide everyone with the tools, materials and advice they need to complete their project, from those embarking on their first DIY project right through to experienced tradesmen.

"We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors through our doors this weekend and hope that local residents will come and join us for celebration."

Visitors can have their picture taken with the Dulux dog this Saturday between 12-4pm and enjoy a glass of fizz and canapes while chatting with staff from May 1-4.