A NEW, British-based supermarket was today opening its first store in York, with an appeal to local suppliers and manufacturers.

Budgens says it is a strong advocate of British produce, priding itself on fresh food, delivered daily from British producers wherever possible.

It is now looking for help from local suppliers to strengthen its ties with the region.

The chain boasts that it always goes directly to British growers for fresh fruit and vegetables and sells not a single French apple or pear, with nearly all the fresh meat being home-produced.

The national chain is keen to use producers from the region - including tea suppliers Taylors of Harrogate and Nestl Rowntree - in all its stores.

A spokeswoman said: "We would be delighted to be approached by local businesses in the area, local suppliers, manufacturers, however big or small.

"We are always looking for opportunities to broaden our appeal to our customers."

The Micklegate store, the chain's first venture into the region, was today being opened by two of York's earliest residents - a Roman and a Viking who wielded their swords to cut the ribbon.

The day's festivities were featuring live jazz music, free balloons for all children and special offers all day, with the first 50 customers through the checkout receiving a free bottle of wine.

Budgens is also supporting a local primary school by donating £300 to its major building fund.

Dringhouses Primary School is to benefit from the donation, where the store has also run a Mother's Day painting competition, with the three winners and a member of staff in store today to display their paintings in store for a month.

Updated: 10:01 Thursday, March 13, 2003