A POPULAR cafe bakery brand had opened its first store in Colchester, bringing 15 new jobs to the town.

Muffin Break has moved into a large unit in the Lion Walk Shopping Centre, which used to be home to the town's HMV.

To celebrate opening day, the 50 first customers through the door were given gold vouchers giving them a choice of freshly baked item from the menu.

The firm's Muffin Man mascot was also in the centre handing out balloons to youngsters.

Centre manager Martin Leatherdale said: "We’re delighted to have Muffin Break joining us at the centre.

"They’re a popular brand and I’ve no doubt they will be a huge success with our customers, as well as a positive asset for the centre, encouraging people to come and visit.”

Muffin Break's head of estates Joshua Nixon added: "Colchester has been a target town for many years, and we are excited to open our first Muffin Break in the town in a beautiful corner unit at the entrance to Lion Walk Shopping Centre.

"We believe that there is a real gap in the market here for a high-quality coffee offer and we are looking forward to showcasing our new vegan and breakfast offering."