1,000 people battle for just 50 jobs in new Hornchurch store

NEARLY 1,000 people have been vying for just 50 jobs at a new supermarket in Hornchurch, it was revealed today (Monday November 15).

Twenty applicants battled it out for each vacancy at the Waitrose convenience store - which opens on Thursday (November 18) in High Street.

Manager, Darren Leeder, said: “We have invested heavily in the training of our partners and were overwhelmed by the number of applications, and the calibre of those applying. “We really have a fantastic team here at Hornchurch, and we can’t wait to open to find out what the community think about the new store.”

Along with the usual range of foods and necessities, customers can expect to find a bakery, salad and olive bars, plus a selection of hot food and drinks for those on the go.

Darren said: “Hornchurch is the ideal location for us as there is a real passion for quality food here. We’re really looking forward to bringing this new offer to Essex for the first time, and working closely with other local retailers and the local community to attract more people into Hornchurch.”

The supermarket replaces the former Bathroom Shop and Special Days Store, following a multi-million pound refurbishment.

On opening, the branch will launch Community Matters - a scheme which will see it donate �6,000 a year to 36 local good causes.

The first three charities to benefit are: Add + Up - a local support and action group for families whose children have ADHD; St Francis Hospice - an independent charity caring for local people with any life-limiting illness; and Sense - the leading national charity that supports and campaigns for children and adults who are deaf-blind.