Today sees the opening of the newly extended and refitted forecourt store of Kent-based Spar retailer David Charman.

Parkfoot Garages Ltd first launched a convenience store on London Road in 1996  - becoming the first winner of the Forecourt Trader of the Year awards in the same year. In the past few months the store has undergone a £250,000 refit, which will see the shop extended from 1,500sq ft to 2,950sq ft and fitted with the recently unveiled, new-look Spar fascia and imagery.

The 24-hour BP forecourt promises to offer shoppers everything they could want from a modern convenience store including a wide range of chilled foods, extensive produce section, groceries, impulse and an off licence.

The store will also boast a locally-supplied delicatessen, a butchery supplied by Faversham-based Butcher of Brogdale, a made-to-order sandwich counter and a great organic and vegetarian selection.

Customers will be able to speak to the store’s full-time butcher about the selection of meats on offer and the best ways to cook them.

To celebrate the store’s makeover, tomorrow’s grand launch day will feature local produce tasting sessions, free Spar goodie bags and special one-day offers. Timmy the Clown will provide entertainment on the day and all customers will be in with the chance to win a £100 meat hamper, a fudge-making experience with locally-based Fudge Kitchen and a butchery course with Butcher of Brogdale.

Owner David Charman said: “This is one of the most exciting projects to hit West Malling recently, bringing together local suppliers and fresh products to offer customers a real alternative to supermarkets.

“We really hope our customers will be as excited as we are about these traditional values returning to the area.”

Stuart Ware, regional account manager of Spar wholesaler Blakemore Trade Partners, said: “Blakemore Trade Partners is proud to support David Charman in the development of what will be another excellent Spar store in Kent.”