THE opening of a controversial new Tesco Express store today (Monday) was marked with a cash donation to a local primary school.

The outlet, in Wanstead High Street, welcomed its first customers at 8.00am - more than a year after the site was taken over by the supermarket giant following the closure of Woolworths.

The launch comes after several opening dates were set, and passed, by the firm due to problems with the building's power supply.

Plans to open the store were fiercely opposed by many local residents who made a failed attempt to prevent it receiving an alcohol licence last year.

The store's new manager, Colin Coleman, visited nearby Wanstead Church School, where he handed over a cheque for £500 to mark the occasion.

He said: "I had a great time meeting the pupils at Wanstead Church Primary School. I’m delighted that my staff and I were able to support the school and provide them with further resources.

"My staff and I are looking forward to welcoming our customers into the new store and we hope that Tesco will become a key part of the local community."

The school's headmaster, Peter Lewis, said: "We are delighted to receive this donation from Tesco and would like to thank them for their support. It was great that Colin came down to visit the pupils."

The branch is open from 6am till 11pm, Monday to Sunday.