THE OFFICIAL launch of the Homend Shopping Mall last Saturday June 21, is being hailed as a great success, with scores of people popping in to wish to traders well, and also to buy their wares.

The site of the former Eager Electrical store, which stood empty for two years after closing in the autumn of 2011, has been converted into affordable units for enterprising traders who keen to start building a retail empire from an affordable base.

Mall owners, Margaret Eager and her son, Martin, have spent £250,000 converting and renovating the premises, including re-wiring, insulation and a new roof.

Mr Eager said: "I would say we had several hundred people through the doors, and it was a busy time for all."

Highlights included an adult treasure hunt, children's face painting and nail painting, raffles, games, competitions and refreshments.

Special guests were the Town Crier, Bill "The Bell" Turberfield, and the Carnival Princess, Amy Browning-Smith, aged 10.