International rugby star Huw Bennett dropped in to Festival Park to officially open the premier outlet centre’s latest new store.

The former Wales hooker stopped by for the opening of the new Bench store, which comes hot on the heels of other recent high-profile signings, including Wales’ first Poundland outlet, coffee giant Costa, ladies fashion retailers Autonomy, Jacques Vert and the Beauty Outlet.

Shoppers were delighted to see the player, who won an impressive 51 Caps for his country and played a part in two Grand Slam successes.

Lifestyle brand Bench has taken a lease on a 2500 sq ft store.

Chester Properties director of outlets Ian Sanderson said: “It was great to have Huw come down to lend his support on opening day – he’s very well-known and admired locally and we appreciate him taking the time to join us. Festival Park’s recent tenant signings mark an incredibly exciting time for our centre and the addition of such a popular and internationally-recognised label as Bench adds yet more to our diverse shopping offer."

Bench head of store operations Rhodri Morgan said: “We are excited to launch the new outlet and Festival Park is a great location in which to establish the brand."