SHOPPERS revealed their prayers had been answered after a new discount store opened its doors in their town. 

Droitwich welcomed the opening of its new Poundland branch this morning (Saturday) after it replaced the vacant Wilko store in St Andrews Square.

Worcester News: WELCOME: Former Wilko employees are back behind the tills at Droitwich's new Poundland.WELCOME: Former Wilko employees are back behind the tills at Droitwich's new Poundland. (Image: NQ)It has been a quick turnaround at the store after Poundland owner Pepco agreed to buy up to 71 Wilko stores - including Worcester's and Droitwich's - following the collapse of that chain last month. 

Ian Dickinson, a keen customer who arrived at 8am this morning to see the opening, said: "We have been wanting a Poundland for years, since it started even.

Worcester News: PLEASED: Ian Dickinson and Rita Bailey at the opening of Poundland in Droitwich. PLEASED: Ian Dickinson and Rita Bailey at the opening of Poundland in Droitwich. (Image: NQ)"It is nice to get a Poundland as otherwise we would have to go to Worcester or Bromsgrove, and if you don't have transport, it's a long way to travel.

"Droitwich has been affected quite badly by shops closing. We lost our Argos, and the bank closed (HSBC).

"It is a shame that a lot of the shops in the area have closed, but now we have this."

Another customer, Rita Bailey, said she was upset to hear Wilko had closed but pleased to know the store will not remain vacant.

Worcester News: Crowds made their way into the store at 8am this morning.Crowds made their way into the store at 8am this morning. (Image: NQ)"It's nice to see another shop opening instead of closing," she said.

"I was just so pleased because I am partially disabled.

"Hopefully, it will be for the best for me as I do not need to travel far out, and everything will be all in one spot."

A small crowd formed around the store at 8am to mark the opening of Poundland.

Worcester News: The new Poundland boasts a large clothes section.The new Poundland boasts a large clothes section. (Image: NQ)Barbra Frizzell, store manager, said: "All the guys here are Wilko employees.

"For Droitwich, they are friends of the public. They have always been here for the people.

"I think it's the recognition that customers are going to come in and see the same face, and the customers are so happy to see them back.

Worcester News: The store on St Andrews Street is now fully stocked.The store on St Andrews Street is now fully stocked. (Image: NQ)"They are part of the community, which is why they should be part of Poundland."

We had a look around the store, finding a mix of confectionary, clothing, electrical items, household and kitchen items, as well as children's toys. 

And the store even has sections dedicated to Halloween and Christmas.