THE opening date for Helensburgh's newest supermarket has been confirmed.

Morrisons will welcome the first customers to its Cardross Road store on Thursday, December 3, having taken over the former Waitrose site earlier this year.

There are no major events planned to mark the launch day due to the ongoing restrictions in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The retail giant received more than 1,400 applications for the 200 vacancies at the new shop and efforts are already well under way to establish close community links in the local area.

As reported in last week's Advertiser new community champion Alison Sturgeon has been meeting up with local charities, community groups, schools, nurseries and care homes to offer them the store's backing, while other organisations are being encouraged to get in touch.

READ MORE: Morrisons staff build community links ahead of Helensburgh store opening

This week the store donated hampers featuring a selection of fresh bread, cakes and pastries to local care homes including the Lochside Care Home in Shandon, Argyle Care Centre, Northwood House and Morar Lodge.

Meanwhile store manager Scot Byers met up with Hermitage Academy headteacher Robert Williamson to form a positive working relationship between the school and the new supermarket across the road.

Alison and fellow community champion Claire Wright also helped plant daffodil bulbs donated to the Friends of Hermitage Park today (Thursday).

Morrisons has taken over the running of the petrol station on site, while an outdoor garden centre space will take up part of the car park nearest the main store building.

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