Garden centre retailer, Dobbies, has just announced the opening date of its newly built flagship store in Tewkesbury.

The 70,000 sq ft centre based just off Junction 9 of the M5 at Ashchurch will open on November 3 at 10am, as part of the 195,000 sq ft Cotswolds Designer Outlet. 

The new store is one of Dobbies' biggest stores to date and the largest in the South West.

Expected to welcome more than 750,000 customers each year, the opening will include the launch of Dobbies' full Christmas range, along with its festive events programme and seasonal menu.

As part of the company's new food hall partnership with Waitrose, customers will also be able to sample products from Waitrose's food ranges, as well as sweet treats from Hotel Chocolat.

Around 100 new jobs for local and neighbouring communities have been created at the Tewkesbury store, which spans Dobbies' range of plants, houseplants, gardening products, seasonal items, pet range, cookshop, home décor, gifts and toys.

The store also boasts a Little Seedlings soft play area for children and a 10,000 sq ft restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

Graeme Jenkins, chief executive of Dobbies Garden Centres, said: "Our Tewkesbury store marks another major milestone for Dobbies and our growth strategy, and I am extremely proud of all the hard work that has gone into creating our flagship centre. I'd like to thank all the Dobbies' team members and everyone else who has helped to achieve this.

"The Tewkesbury store promises an exceptional shopper experience for all the family, with customers able to enjoy a leisurely day of shopping, dining and fun for the children. We can't wait to open our doors in November and hear what people think."

Dobbies has also just announced its first charity shopping event for the Tewkesbury story. The event, in aid of national charity partner, Teenage Cancer Trust, takes place on Thursday November 24, 5-9pm, with £1 tickets on sale now.