Shoebury’S first major supermarket has marked its 30th anniversary with a packed programme of celebrations.

On December 7, 1981, Asda opened its doors to customers on North Shoebury Road for the first time.

Thirty years later, the shop is still going strong and is now one of the top stores across the south eastern region for the company, only being beaten in sales by Asda’s Norwich branch.

Shoppers were treated to complementary chocolates and cake as they walked into the supermarket throughout the day.

Along with the treats, pupils from Shoeburyness High School, the Royden Academy and Bournemouth Park Primary School sang outside the building while members of staff danced along to the tunes.

The supermarket, which is open 24 hours a day, employs more than 550 people.

Greg Rawlins, general manager, said staff feel proud to see the store reach its 30th birthday, because a real community atmosphere had built up since Asda first opened.

He said: “Over the years, the store has grown along with the surroundings around us and it is fantastic to be part of the team here at such a special milestone.

“It has given us a real community feel and we try as much as possible to go out in the area to work with schools and community groups.

“We also support local charities and associations coming to us so they can use the store for events. Recently we had the Royal British Legion and its Poppy Appeal in the store and it ended up raising £3,901 which is great.

“I think this sums up the atmosphere we have tried to build over the years as we want to be seen as a friendly, warm place.”

A huge birthday cake was also made for the big day, with staff member Jan Dilliway, who has worked in the store for the entire 30 years, doing the honour of cutting the first slice.

Mr Rawlins said it was important to celebrate the landmark anniversary with the staff and customers.

“People living in Shoebury will have grown up shopping at the store,” he said.

“We feel important in Shoebury as we are the biggest business in the town and we still have regulars shopping here from the first day, so we wanted to get everyone involved in celebrating.”

Regular customer Irene Randall, 88, of Suffolk Avenue, Leigh, said Asda in Shoebury was her favourite place to shop and was pleased to see staff celebrating.

Mrs Randall said: “I come here every fortnight on the free bus. I first shopped here about 25 years ago and I cannot say enough about how wonderful the staff are inside.

“They are also very helpful when it comes to helping carrying your shopping around if you need assistance. They are so friendly.”

Her sister, Ena Davison, 78, of St George’s Avenue, Prittlewell, has been using the supermarket for 15 years.

She said: “I think the atmosphere around the shop is really good.

“I always think it is very clean inside as well and I enjoy shopping there.”