POUNDSTRETCHER has returned to Galashiels after taking over premises at Comely Bank Mill Retail Park.

The store which was previously occupied by Carpet Right officially opened last Saturday January 28 2023.

And early arrivals were welcomed by an entertainer with music, games and activities.

Peeblesshire News: SBC Leader Euan Jardine cuts the ribbon at Poundstretcher - Photo Alwyn Johnston SBC Leader Euan Jardine cuts the ribbon at Poundstretcher - Photo Alwyn Johnston

First in the queue were Robyn and Merisa Gray, from Galashiels, who took part in a chocolate-related quiz and won £20 and a coffee pod holder.

The store then ran a charity trolley dash for the benefit of Galashiels and Area Foodbank, which chose Braw Lad John Turnbull to represent them.

And the Gala Rugby star did them proud.

To the cheers of the crowd, John collected an impressive 85 items in 60 seconds and returned to the checkout with the trolley filled to the brim.

After handing over the goods he said: “That was fun, now we’ll have to beat Kelso to make it a perfect day.” (And they did just that)

Peeblesshire News: Braw Lad John Turnbull's trolley dash for the Galashiels and Area Foodnbank Photo Alwyn Johnston Braw Lad John Turnbull's trolley dash for the Galashiels and Area Foodnbank Photo Alwyn Johnston

Foodbank manager John Tucker said: “Braw Lad John did very well and managed to fill the trolley. We briefed him in advance on what to look for such as non-perishable items such as tinned goods and tea and coffee.

“I’d like to thank Poundstretcher for choosing us and John for doing the trolley dash."

Next on stage were youngsters Billie Rose, aged six, and Ellie Louise, aged five, who answered questions on the film Frozen. They won £10 worth of vouchers each and a Playdough set, a slime kit and a diary.

At 10am Scottish Borders Council leader Euan Jardine officially cut the ribbon to allow shoppers entry to the store and welcomed the discount retailer back to the town after five years.

Peeblesshire News: Queue's outside Poundstretcher in Galashiels - Photo Alwyn Johnston Queue's outside Poundstretcher in Galashiels - Photo Alwyn Johnston

Poundstretcher spent a decade in the town’s High Street before being replaced by the Great Tapestry of Scotland centre.

The new opening means the store is the chain's 328th shop.

New members of staff (both part and full time) from the local area have been recruited to become part of the Poundstretcher team.

Gerry Loughran, the property director, said: ‘We are pleased to be returning to the town of Galashiels with loads of big branded products and a great range of offers.

"The team is working hard to deliver an outstanding shopping experience, great service, and an enjoyable shopping environment for all our new and returning customers."