THE VIP launch of the new Next store at Middlebrook Retail Park celebrated the success of the shop since its opening four weeks ago.

More than 100,000 customers have visited the store since it threw opens its doors.

And the big celebration night was held to reward staff and loyal customers.

The store, which includes a Costa Coffee and a Paperchase, cost £12 million to build and measures 39,000 square feet.

Joining Max the Middlebrook Moose, Mayor of Horwich Cllr Peter Wright attended along with his sister Alison Wright, the mayoress, to mark the launch of one of the largest Next stores in the North West.

Those invited received 10 per cent off purchases along with refreshments and a glass of Prosecco.

Entertainment was provided by Dawn Dawson as well as face painting and henna tattoos.

Store manager Anthony Bowes, who organised the event together with deputy store manager Samantha Park, said the evening was a “great success”.

Mr Bowes said: “We invited many of our Next directory account customers along to receive discounts on all our clothing, homeware paperchase and Costa products.

“It was a great way to say thank you and reward the team in store with a fun and energetic evening.”

The Next 'home-hybrid' store at Middlebrook was officially opened on Tuesday, July 3 by the store manager who was joined by Bolton Wanderers’ mascot Lofty the Lion to cut the ribbon.

Mr Bowes said: “The store has been trading for just over four weeks now, and it has been a huge success so far with lots of happy customers. Long may it continue.”

According to Middlebrook marketing manager Heather Crank-Ingham, the new superstore has welcomed over 100,000 customers so far.

She described the store as a “fantastic asset” to the retail park.

She said: “We are looking forward to welcoming many more shoppers and working together with the store.”

The  store is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 8.30pm, 9am to 8pm on Saturdays and 10.30am to 5pm on Sundays.