THE much anticipated Asda Barry store opened its doors this morning, with customers queuing for up to three hours to witness the grand opening.

Foster carer Brenda Rees was chosen as Barry's local hero and given the honour of cutting the ribbon at the Quays development store at10am today (Monday, April 13).

Brenda was joined by local dignitaries Vale Mayor Howard Hamilton and wife Carol, Barry town mayor Jeff Evans, Jane Hutt AM and Councillor Chris Elmore.

Foster carer Brenda Rees from Barry was invited by colleagues to officially open The Quays development store, following a search for a local hero.

Brenda has fostered for over 40 years and in that time has taken vulnerable babies, children and teenagers into her home, looking after each as if they were their own.

She continues to provide support to parents and their families in Barry through a parenting outreach programme.

Brenda was presented with a £100 Asda gift card on behalf of the store.

Store manager, Richard Jenkins, said: “It was a pleasure for Brenda to open our brand new store.

"She really stood out to us, her commitment to fostering has been fantastic and she has opened her home to so many children over the years.

“We were delighted that local dignitaries and the community could join us for the opening of the brand new store, which will make a huge difference to local people.”

Brenda said: “I’m over-the-moon to open the new store. I was completely shocked when they told me.”

First through the door was Sarah Macpherson and her husband Chris who had been queuing since 7am.

"We would normally spend £10 on the train to go to the ASDA in Cardiff," said Sarah, 38, of Tydfil Street, Barry, "We're so excited that it's here in Barry now.

"It's good for the town."

More than 300 new jobs have been created for local people at the new 37,000 square foot store.