THE Tesco store which created a storm of protest when it was first announced for Sandbanks' 'Millionaires Row' opened for business yesterday.

Poole Mayor Cllr Phil Eades cut the ribbon on the new Tesco Express mini-supermarket, which was developed at the former Sandacres pub site.

Angry residents threatened to boycott the store when it was announced for the peninsular, with many arguing its location was inappropriate alongside the exclusive properties of the area.

Other opponents said there was no need for the shop as the Lilliput Tesco branch is only a mile-and-a-half away.

However, Tesco says the company worked closely with the Sandbanks Residents Association Coordinating Committee during the planning process, and that local people have had some say in the shop's design.

Sandbanks resident Perry Jeandren, who was among the crowd at the opening, said: “I was just amazed with the choice in the shop. There's a salad bar, a great choice of wines, it's really quite good.”

Meanwhile, one of the store's first customers, Peter Williamson, said: “I can understand people being sad to lose the pub here, as it is a prime spot. But it is better to have a Tesco than a derelict building that would have probably been snapped up by another millionaire from London to redevelop.”

Another resident who asked not to be named said: “I bet the same people who protested will probably be queuing to be served at some time in the next few weeks.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice was donated £500 during the opening.

New store manager Nick Boucher said: “I'm lucky to be working at a store with one of the best views in the country. I have a great team working with me and we can't wait to meet all our new customers.”