School children did some spade work this week in preparation for the opening of a new store.

Pupils from Riddlesden St Mary's Primary School planted trees and flowers in the grounds of the village's Co-op Late Shop, which opens today.

The children also learned more about the new store and spoke to staff members.

The Bradford Road outlet, on a previously derelict site, represents an investment of almost £600,000.

It will be formally opened at 10am today by United Co-op board director John Prestage, with other senior company staff and the local school children.

The shop -- which will open daily from 7am-10pm -- will provide a range of goods including groceries, confectionery, bread and milk, chilled and frozen foods, fruit and vegetables, beers and wines, cigarettes, newspapers and magazines, and greetings cards.

There is also a cash machine and pay point.

Parking is available for 12 vehicles, and there are specific spaces for disabled motorists and families.

Eighteen new jobs have been created.

Store manager Heather Howes said: "Not only are we a Late Shop, providing local people with access to our store from early in the morning until late at night, we also offer very personal customer care - something that the Co-op is committed to providing to its shoppers."