THE great outdoors will be even more accessible to residents in Swindon after a new award-winning outdoor clothing and equipment shop opened its doors in the town.

Cotswold Outdoor threw open the doors of its 72nd store, which is based at Mannington Retail Park opposite John Lewis, on Friday.

To celebrate the store opening, the first 100 customers to spend £50 or more in store were rewarded with a goody bag filled with products worth more than £100.

CEO Hans Falkenburg and Jackie Jordan, director of brand and marketing at the National Trust, cut the climbing rope and welcomed customers to the store.

Jackie said: “I’m delighted to be opening Cotswold Outdoor’s latest store. We’ve been working with Cotswold Outdoor for just under a year and their support has been fantastic – from helping deliver outdoor events and activities to supporting our conservation work– we’ve been able to encourage more people than ever to get outdoors and discover our beautiful coast and countryside.”

Cotswold Outdoor has been helping customers choose from a wide variety of outdoor clothing and equipment for more than 40 years and has received national recommended retailer statuses from National Trust, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, Scouts, Girlguiding UK and the Ramblers.

Store manager Jenny Burgess said: “We’re really excited about welcoming customers to our new store. It’s a fantastic position in Swindon with an abundance of outdoor locations on our doorstep.

“We’ve already begun to build links with various local organisations and charities. We aim to provide a resource point for the local outdoor community, sharing our team’s expertise and experience alongside our product offering and unique services.”