Hundreds of people queued outside the store to get the first glimpse of the brand new two-storey shopping destination, which is home to a fabulous collection of fashion, beauty and home.
Ann Guest, 76, was selected by the store team to officiate the opening, alongside Jody, following a call out for local residents to nominate someone who deserved a pampering makeover at the store. Ann was nominated by her friend, Christine Crazie, as a result of her ongoing work within the local Spring Valley estate.
Ann, who suffers from serious back pain, is a regular sight around the area either organising local fayres to raise money for families to go on days out or regularly visiting the homes of people that are ill or unable to go outside. She has worked tirelessly over the years to promote the interests of her neighbours and to ensure that they have their say over the services that they receive.
Jody, who still lives not far from Wolverhampton since his playing career finished, said: “Ann is a very special lady and it was a pleasure to open the new Debenhams Wolverhampton store alongside her.
“She looked absolutely fabulous in her new outfit which was picked out as part of the makeover this morning, and I hope she enjoyed being pampered as she truly deserves it.”
Debenhams is situated with the Mander Centre, with whom Wolves have continued their partnership on a variety of projects as announced yesterday (CLICK HERE TO VIEW STORY)
The 93,000 square foot store is home to a variety of different departments, including ranges from Designers at Debenhams including Jasper Conran, John Rocha and Savannah Millar.
The amazing new beauty hall means that customers can get their hands on exciting brands such as Too Faced, Kat Von D, Estee Lauder and Buxom.
There is also the chance to sit down, relax, and grab a bite to eat with friends and family at the new Loaf & Bloom restaurant. Other highlights include a brow bar, a bra fit service, travel money and free Wifi.
Local hero, Ann Guest, said: “I had such a lovely morning, picking out new season outfits and cutting the ribbon to the store.
“I’d like to say thank you to my friend, Christine, for nominating me for the prize. I love living in Wolverhampton, it has such an amazing neighbourly spirit and I’m sure the new Debenhams will be a focal point for the community from now on.”
Alison Young, store manager for Debenhams in Wolverhampton said: "It’s fantastic to finally open our doors to the public, having been working behind the scenes for so long.
“It was amazing to see so many members of the local community outside the store this morning, and it was a pleasure to have Ann cut the ribbon alongside Jody - she looked absolutely beautiful.
“We have a team of 150 customer service superstars working across the fantastic fashion, beauty and home departments in store, and they can’t wait to meet our new customers.”
* Jody and Ann are pictured cutting the ribbon with the Mayor and Mayoress of Wolverhampton.
