SHOPPERS turned out in their droves to officially open Johnstone's new Aldi store as the final piece in phase one of the town's multi-million pound retail park puzzle was complete. 

Scottish Olympian Mark Bennett joined the first 30 customers and pupils from Thorn Primary School at the historic Paton's Mill site on Thursday morning. 

And the first customers through the door were treated to a complimentary bag full of fresh fruit and vegetables from Aldi’s Super 6 range.

READ MORE: Home Bargains becomes latest arrival at historic Renfrewshire site

Following the opening, Mark Bennett visited Thorn Primary School and gave an inspiring assembly, sharing his training regime behind becoming an Olympic silver medallist.

He also explained the importance healthy eating and exercising had had on his success, hoping to motivate the children to eat well and keep moving. 

Speaking after the opening, Team GB star, Mark, said: “It has been such a great day – what a way to thank Aldi for its support of Team GB and to be able to give back to communities. It was a pleasure to meet everyone who came along to the opening.”

Store Manager, Sandy McKelvie, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who has played a part of making today a success. Having Mark join us has really made today a special event.

"It was great to meet some of our new customers and we look forward to meeting many more in the coming weeks and months.”

READ MORE: Johnstone’s new retail park is open for business

In a welcome boost to the local economy, 30 jobs have been created with the launch of the Johnstone store. Along with Home Bargains and Starbucks at the site of the historic mill, over 70 jobs are expected to have been brought to the town.