BASINGSTOKE'S newest supermarket has opened - and there was a starring role for a local hero.

The new £25million Asda in Brighton Way, Brighton Hill, flung open its doors to hundreds of customers on Monday morning.

Cutting the giant till roll which officially marked the store's opening was Brighton Hill resident and The Link co-ordinator David Kamsler.

David was invited to do the honours after Asda asked residents of Brighton Hill to nominate someone who has contributed significantly to the community.

Several nominations were received, but David, who has run The Link from his home in Gershwin Road for 12 years, was chosen.

Through The Link, he has played a key role in helping communities in Basingstoke and beyond by linking companies with voluntary organisations who can make use of items they no longer need.

He was chauffeured to the store on Monday after being wined and dined the previous day at The Queen Inn in Dummer. Everyone nominated will be treated to a heroes' party at the new store.

David, 77, was delighted to do the opening honours, but added: "This isn't about me, it's about The Link.

"I'm glad we've been recognised in this way.

"I think the store is marvellous - first class. It's really put Brighton Hill on the map."

General store manager Steve Kelly said: "David has done a tremendous amount of work to help local voluntary organisations over the past 12 years, and we are honoured that he has opened the store."

David was accompanied by Basingstoke and Deane's mayor, Cllr Gerry Traynor, his wife Janet, local councillors Brian Gurden, Sheila Rowland, John Barnes and Tommy Millar, and the reverends David Tomkinson and Trevor Woodget.

A chaplain will be present in the store one day every week.

The 50,000sqft store has created 450 jobs. It contains a bakery, deli, fish counter and rotisserie, as well as the George fashion clothing range.

More than 7,800 transactions were reported by Asda on the first day's trading.