THE Co-op is making a return to Salisbury after more than 20 years.

It is to open a showpiece convenience store on the former garage site at the top end of Wilton Road early next month, creating 11 new jobs.

More than 80 people applied for jobs at the 2,000sqft Co-op, which will be officially launched on Thursday, May 6.

"We expected a good response but were taken aback to receive so many applications," said store manager Jason Burns.

The jobs were advertised in the Salisbury Journal and at the local Jobcentre.

"The Jobcentre staff were extremely helpful and assisted us with the interview process," said Mr Burns.

"Everyone on the team was impressed with the quality of the applicants and we are very pleased with the high calibre of staff we are taking on."

The recruits will undergo training, which includes a customer care programme, courses in food hygiene and safety, and learning about Co-op values and principles.

"Our training programmes are designed to ensure customers receive the highest standards of service and that staff are aware of our community responsibilities as a consumer-owned organisation," said Mr Burns.

Features of the new Co-op include 'access for all' automatic doors, a cash machine, parking, a photocopying service and a comprehensive range of goods, with the emphasis on fresh foods and including in-store baked breads and pastries.

"The store will provide a one-stop shop for the local community, meeting all their daily food shopping needs and, in the best traditions of the Co-op, will play its part in community life," said Mr Burns.

Former Salisbury district councillor John Abbot, who is a member of the south-west board of the Co-op, said: "I am very pleased to see the Co-op back in Salisbury.

"It is particularly good news for the people of Bemerton and Wilton Road area

"We shall now be looking at other opportunities for opening more Co-ops in the city."