The mayor of Whitehaven has officially opened the first VPZ store in Whitehaven town centre.

Whitehaven mayor, Coun Brian O’Kane welcomed the arrival of the vaping retailer to King Street by cutting the ribbon at the official opening event.

VPZ has been responding to rising consumer demand for its products across the UK and the opening of the new store has brought with it a £50,000 investment and five new jobs for Whitehaven's high street.

VPZ director Doug Mutter said: “It was great to welcome Coun Brian O’Kane, mayor of Whitehaven to cut the ribbon at the official opening of our new store.

“It means a lot to us to have the mayor’s support as each new store we open is allowing us to improve the health of the local community here in Whitehaven and across the UK.”

Coun O’Kane, added: “I was delighted to visit the first VPZ in Whitehaven to mark its official opening.

“Whitehaven town council is always happy to welcome new businesses to our town, especially at a time when many high streets throughout the country are seen to be struggling and coming under increasing pressure.

“I look forward to VPZ becoming a strong part of our town’s shopping experience for years to come.”