HIGHWORTH'S long-awaited library and Co-op supermarket complex opened to the sound of music and excited chatter.

The unveiling of the £4.5million development in Brewery Street concludes more than 10 years of discussion, planning and building work.

Highworth Choral Society sang at yesterday's grand opening, while players from Swindon Town FC chatted to fans before Swindon Mayor Stan Pajak and Highworth deputy Mayor Phillip Beaumont cut the ribbon.

Swindon's Pegasus Brass Band entertained some 250 guests at the preview on Tuesday evening with tunes from yesteryear.

The music provided quite a contrast to the modern technology incorporated on the shop floor. Four self-scan tills, enabling customers to scan and pack their own shopping, sit alongside traditional tills. Price verification units allow customers to scan items to check prices, while plasma TV screens offer information about in-store promotions and community events.

Swindon farmer Helen Brown-ing's organic bacon is one of 15,000 products available.

Bob Burlton, chief executive of Oxford, Swindon and Gloucester Co-op, thanked the people of Highworth for their support and patience.

He said: "The store's been a long time coming but it will be worth the wait. This store will be a real centre for the community."

While the Co-op is open for business, the library still has to be finished and needs books, shelves and furniture. It is due to open in late July.

Author and Highworth Historical Society member, Margaret Bacon, said: "There are so many things the society has, which up until now we haven't been able to display.

"But the library is perfect for it all. It's important for people of the community to know about their heritage, particularly the child-ren."

Highworth town councillor Lyn Vardy said: "I'm very pleased the building itself is sympathetic with the area. I'm sure the complex will enrich the town."

In 2000, a prospective complex looked uncertain when the Co-op announced it would abandon plans if permission was given for rival store Coopers to expand in the town.

But plans for the extension were eventually quashed and the Co-op bought Coopers.

The Co-op currently at Glebe Place, Highworth, will now close while the Swindon Road store is being reviewed for potential refurbishment.

The new store's opening hours are 8am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4pm on Sundays.