Jollyes has confirmed that its new Leyland store next to Asda at 171 Towngate will open for business today (November 15), with a formal opening party set for Saturday morning (November 16) at 10am.

The pet superstore recently opened in nearby Blackburn as it continues to rapidly grow its store network across the UK.

Local customers following the store’s Facebook page have chosen Homeless Hounds – Dogs In Need as its local charity partner who’ll be present today when the doors open.

And on Saturday, November 16, the celebrations will really begin. On hand to open the store formally will be a number of very special guests.

The Mayor and Mayoress of South Ribble Councillor Peter Mullineaux and Mrs Margaret McManus will be serenaded by the world-famous Leyland Brass Band playing pet tunes.

And then the opening ceremony will be completed by seven-year-old male Springador Trigger biting through a string of sausages. Trigger is a retired border force dog who retired in 2020 after serving in the North West and beyond.

Like many service animals his treatment is being supported in these later years by the National Federation of Retired Service Dogs (NFRSA), which Jollyes recently named as a key nationwide charity partner.

Jollyes has recruited a team of 12 for its new Leyland store, which will be led by experienced Jollyes manager Jonny Wareing.

He said: “We can’t wait to open our doors; we’re putting the finishing touches to the store to make sure it’s ready for our special celebration on Saturday morning with all our special guests.

“We’re looking forward to giving pet parents in Leyland a new alternative for their pets at home and we can’t wait to bring the kind of value and service we’re famous for, here to another store in the heart of Lancashire.”