THREE-time Olympic medallist Matt Langridge will officially open Kingswinford’s new Aldi store next week.

Swapping his oars for the aisles, the Team GB rowing star will perform the ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, September 7, before heading to St Mary’s CE Primary School to host a morning assembly.

Matt, who completed his Olympic medal collection by claiming gold with the men's eight rowing team at Rio in 2016, will open the new Dudley Road store – which has created 35 jobs for local people – at 8am.

He will then head to St Mary’s, which is a stone’s throw away from the new supermarket, to host an inspiring assembly, allowing children to meet Matt and learn all about the Olympian, including his career to date and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

Store manager James Green said: “As we move closer to the opening day, the team’s excitement is contagious. We can’t wait to cut the ribbon and welcome all of our new shoppers to the store.

“There’s a real desire from everyone to provide the best customer service, quality products and affordable prices for the local community that surrounds our store.

“The team and I are also thrilled to have an Olympic medallist to help us celebrate. I am sure the local children will also really enjoy their assembly that day - to meet an Olympian and hold an array of medals for many people is a once in a lifetime experience.”

Matt’s visit was part of Aldi’s partnership with Team GB and the supermarket’s commitment to inspiring 1.2 million school children to learn about the benefits of cooking fresh, healthy food.

The Olympian said: “I’m really looking forward to my jam-packed morning in Kingswinford. I hope to inspire customers and pupils to try new sports and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

“I rely heavily on a healthy diet to make sure I am fighting-fit and the right diet fuels my energy levels to ensure I continue to make my country proud.”

Aldi is still recruiting for store apprentices and a deputy store manager for the new Kingswinford supermarket, which will include 105 customer car parking spaces.

For more information about the roles at Aldi, visit www.aldirecruitment.co.uk/stores

The first 30 people in the queue at Aldi Kingswinford will get a free shopping bag full of fresh fruit and veg from the chain’s ‘Super 6’ range.

The store will be open from 8am until 10pm Monday to Saturday and 10am until 4pm on Sunday.