Ashton United FC

Customers were given a devilish treat when the Wilkinson store, situated on Market Place, Ashton-under-Lyne, launched its re-branded image on Thursday 13th October, with the help of Ashton United FC’s star defender, Kyle Harrop, who officially unveiled the home and garden retailer’s new look to the public.

To mark the official re-opening, Kyle joined club Director, Steve Hobson, Wilkinsons’ Head of Multi-Channel, Simon Hathway, and store manager, Nick Whitehouse, in cutting the ceremonial ribbon and declaring the store re-open.

On behalf of Ashton United FC’s chosen charity, Home Start, Nick presented representatives, Sarah Petts, development manager and Carol Barrow, trustee board member, with a £500 cheque donation to go towards the ongoing running of the charity, which offers practical help and advice to families in the region.

Frankie Frankenstein, an impressive nine foot tall stilt walker, was let loose entertaining customers in Market Square and the first 50 customers through the doors were entered in a free lucky dip, winning a variety of quality products from the store, including shower gels from the beauty range and toys from the ‘New Toys’ range.

Nick said: “We couldn’t have asked for a better re-launch. The ceremonial ribbon cutting set the day off with a flying start by unveiling the store’s new look and Frankie Frankenstein (Steve Hobson wasn't under cover on this occasion)was a real crowd pleaser.

“The re-opening day was made even more special by our guests’ attendance and I would like to thank Ashton United FC, Home Start and St Ann’s Hospice for coming along today and helping us. They really helped everyone get into the celebratory spirit.”

Kyle said: “It has been an absolute pleasure joining Wilkinson today as the store unveiled its rebranded image, and I know that the donation has been gratefully received by Home Start.”

Celebrations will continue on Saturday 15th October, when representatives from the North West Animal Sanctuary will bring ‘Shamrock,’ a Eurasian eagle owl and ‘Thai,’ a Taiwanese beauty rat snake, to the store from 10am until 2pm to meet shoppers. A face painter will also be in store, transforming children into a variety of spooky Halloween creatures, including spiders, ghosts and witches.