More than 200 people queued outside Aldi for its official opening on Thursday (July 16), with 100 of its first customers landing their hands on a ‘golden ticket’.

Saffron Walden Reporter: Saffron Walden Aldi opening.Saffron Walden Aldi opening. (Image: 2014 Roger King)

Prizes included tickets for Classic Food Mixers and bags brimmed with Aldi shopping, but the big win went to Boaz Yehezkel who collected a

42-inch HD LED TV.

Mr Yehezkel had been queuing since 4.30am, with the store not officially opening until 8am.

In fact, the full queue was ready and waiting by the time the Mayor of Saffron Walden, Councillor Heather Asker, arrived at 7:20am, and, joined by store manager Melanie Mansfield, the two declared Aldi open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Councillor Asker told the Reporter: “It was hectic. It was absolutely brilliant and Saffron Walden came out in its finest.”

Melanie Mansfield, Aldi store manager, said: “My team and I very much enjoyed welcoming our new customers to the store.

The turnout on the day was fantastic, with 100 people walking away with a prize.

“We hope the shoppers enjoyed our celebrations and I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

Since opening, the store has created 28 jobs for the community and more are yet to be filled including nine store assistants and two stock assistant roles.

The new store offers more than 1,500 product lines and has ‘Specialbuys’ days every Thursday and Sunday, offering savings on household and electrical items.

Councillor Asker said: “I had a look round and saw some very interesting bargains, so I will going back to do my shopping later on today.”

She added: “We have a Waitrose, Tesco and Aldi now, and I hope this means that more people will stay in Saffron Walden and that more people will come into the town too, particularly the town centre.”