A neighbourhood Tesco store opposed by residents and businesses has filled its vacancies – with more than four times as many people applying than jobs available.

The Express store in the former Chells Family Pub on Mobbsbury Way in Stevenage has recruited 22 staff after more than 100 people applied to work there, the company announced today (Monday).

Plans for the store were opposed by former pub regulars who complained it forced the loss of a much-used facility, and shop owners in the neighbouring Glebe shopping centre who said it threatened small businesses.

Store manager Akville Milkeviciute said she was thrilled with the “huge response” to the vacancies which were advertised at Job Centre Plus.

“In this time of economic uncertainty it is great that we are able to create jobs for our local community and help people get back into work,” she said. “We look forward to playing an active role in the local community.”

The shop is due to open in January and will open from 6am to 11pm seven days a week.