A NEW Starbucks store is set to open at Bournemouth's Castlepoint Shopping Centre today.

Operated by a regional Starbucks licensee Cobra Coffee, part of Southern Co-op, the store will create nine new jobs and fills the unit that was previously occupied by Frankie & Benny's.

To celebrate the opening, staff will be offering complimentary reusable cups to 50 lucky customers every day, for a week.

Lili Matthews, Starbucks Castlepoint store manager, said: “We are very excited to open our new store in Bournemouth and the team are closely following guidance from both the local government and health authorities to keep everyone safe in-store.

"We can’t wait to start welcoming new faces over the holiday season.”

Customers will be able to enjoy Starbucks holiday menu, with returning festive favourites the Toffee Nut Latte, Gingerbread Latte, and Eggnog Latte available. They can also try new items this season, including the Truffle Deluxe Hot Chocolate and The One with the Gravy Layer Sandwich.

The store will be supporting MIND as its local charity partner.

MIND provides support and advice to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. Starbucks values building strong and lasting relationships within store communities through partnerships with local charities, community groups and residents.

The store has a contemporary nautical design, inspired by its coastal surroundings, with seating and free wi-fi near the sea.

It is located at Unit 8A of Eastmall at Castlepoint in Castle Lane West and is open from 7.am until 6pm Monday to Saturday and 8am until 6pm on Sunday.