SHOPPERS have been taking their first peek inside St Helens town centre's new Fat Face store after it opened on Saturday morning.

The fashion retailer, which has more than 200 stores across Britain and Ireland, has moved into the former Burton's building on the corner of Church Street and Bridge Street.

Customers were busy snapping up clothes at the store, which houses womenswear on the ground floor and men's and children's fashion on the first.

It is believed the store, said to be Fat Face's biggest in the UK and an outlet shop, which means some clothing is reduced in price, has recruited more than 20 staff.

Its arrival at the landmark town centre spot - where Bridge Street meets Church Street - has been hailed as a major boost to the town centre, which has been criticised for store closures and an increase in budget stores over recent years.

The news continues a positive trend for Church Square Shopping Centre, where a huge H&M is also scheduled to open later this autumn.

Church Square Shopping Centre manager Steve Brogan said: “It means more jobs for the local community plus it strengthens Church Square’s position as the place to head to for all the latest fashions.

"The new store will be the largest in the UK for Fat Face and one of their first outlet stores. I’m sure it will be a real pleasure for shoppers to visit to buy men's, ladies and children’s wear at good value prices."