A CHARITY for deaf people helped launch a new supermarket this week after it had been nominated to cut the ribbon by a Citizen reader.

Claire Downican, youth development officer for Deafway, based in Brockles Brow, Preston officially cut the ribbon on the new Tesco Express store in Longridge Road, Ribbleton, on Monday.

She also received a £500 cheque on behalf of the charity from the supermarket.

In an entry to a competition in the Citizen, September 23, our reader stated: "I think Deafway should be given the cheque and the scissors to cut the ribbon at the new Tesco.

"It does so much good work for deaf people across the city, helping not just deaf people but also their families. But its good work is so often overlooked by fundraisers and funding bodies."

Mrs Downican said: "We are thrilled to receive the cheque in recognition of the dedication and of the work that Deafway offers to the community, it's an honour."

She said the money would help them to develop their services further.

Sarah Truscott, manager of the new store, added: "We were delighted as a store to have been able to donate to such a worthwhile charity, which directly helps the local community."

The new Tesco store is replacing the Day & Nite store which used to be on the site.