New Waitrose store opens in Hampton

After all the controversy the new Waitrose store has finally opened in Hampton.

The store was opened by the Richmond mayor Councillor Clare Head, as well as Richmond food hero Karen Tanner.

Mrs Tanner recently scooped first prize in a national Lorraine Kelly show competition to find Britain's best soup and will see her chicken, paprika and chorizo creation sold across Waitrose branches from February.

She said: "I've always been passionate about cooking and hope that 2012 brings me plenty of culinary inspiration - I'm looking forward to focusing my time on developing some exciting new recipes over the next few months."

Waitrose store manager Steve Yates said: "In such a challenging current climate, it's great to see new a local success story like Karen's and we hope to make our own positive contribution to the community through the investment we have made here."

The store will also be supported local charities each year promising to donate £6,000 through the Community Matters scheme. The first three charities to benefit will be Shooting Star Children's Hospice, Hampton Junior School and Linden Hall day centre.

We want to hear your thoughts on the new store - are you going to be a regular shopper there or are you against the chain coming to the area?