A LUCKY Journal reader was given the honour of opening the new-look Edinburgh Woollen Mill after winning a competition. 

Melba Knighton joined the store's team and customers to cut the special gold ribbon this morning. 

"It was very exciting. I am very happy [to have been chosen to open the store]. I love the shop and the clothes," said Melba, who lives in Old Sarum. 

And she says it will be a day to remember. Melba was also presented with a basic of goodies and flowers as a memento of the opening. 

This is the first revamp the Queen Street store has undergone in about 15 years and the modern look still incorporates its Scottish roots. The counter features Edinburgh Woollen Mills own tartan. 

Area manager Teresa Harris added: "It really does take us into the 21st century. It's a nice, bright, and cheery environment. It's been a lot of hard work. The staff have worked really hard and had two days to get ready for the opening."

The store, which hopes to build on its customer service, has been closed for just over a week. 

Customers were eagerly waiting outside to have a look inside and browse around the new collections of clothing. 

Teresa said: "It is nice and exciting for us and hopefully lots of customers who have shopped with us historically or not been in for a while will pop back in and take a look."

To celebrate the opening the store has hidden gift vouchers in the store for lucky customers to find today and tomorrow.