One of Basingstoke's most popular high street clothing stores reopened this morning having had a makeover.

H&M in Festival Place remained closed during April and May despite other stores opening around them, as it was transformed to feature a new decor, the first store of its kind in the UK.

The 1,400 square foot store opened for the first time at 10am on Friday, with customers queuing around the corner to be one of the first few to browse the new store.

It features full ladies and men's departments, as well as its divided and childrenswear departments set over the two floors.

Area manager Dimitrios Makris and Emily Jazz cut the ribbon on the new store.

Area manager Dimitrios Makris and Emily Jazz cut the ribbon on the new store.

Speaking to The Gazette at the opening, area manager Dimitrios Makris said he was "super excited" that the store was reopening.

He said: "It looks like the customers are really looking forward to coming back.

"Hopefully the experience makes up for the time that we had to wait."

Meanwhile, store manager Emily Razza added: "I can’t believe the day has come to re-open our Basingstoke store.

"I am so proud of my team for all their hard work and what we have been able to achieve. We are so excited for the future of H&M Basingstoke and can’t wait for our customers to see what an amazing store we have."

Among the first to arrive at the store was Edyta, who was shopping for herself and newborn baby.

"It is one of my favourite stores," she said.

H&M Festival Place reopens on Friday May 28.

H&M Festival Place reopens on Friday May 28.

Meanwhile Janet Collins added: "I planned to come in for the opening today.

"When this store is closed Basingstoke doesn't have much choice.

"It's nice to see everyone back. The staff are always very friendly in here."

Meanwhile Stephanie Johnston added: "I'm shopping for maternity clothes. The prices are very reasonable and it's good to see the shop back after such a long wait."

Dimitrios continued: "We had two stores but now it has been merged into one store. This is a new site that we are testing for the first time.

"There is a new colour scheme that is new to the UK market as well."

H&M Festival Place reopens on Friday May 28.

H&M Festival Place reopens on Friday May 28.

The store closed alongside others when Hampshire was put in Tier 4 measures in December, and then remained closed during lockdown.

When other stores reopened in April, H&M remained closed as renovation works continued.

Friday's opening was preceded by a special ribbon cutting ceremony, with Dimitrios and Emily cutting the ribbon and allowing the first shoppers in.