MORE THAN 50 people queued up and squeezed through brand new doors at the fashion giant’s official re-opening at The Oracle.

The retailer, which re-opened on Wednesday, is now occupying three floors of the shopping centre with the new 28,500sq ft Reading store being one of two across the UK to have its very own shoe lounge and home department.

But word of the store offering 25 per cent discount wristbands certainly got around the borough prompting management to up its security in preparation of the event which also featured a balloon bender and DJ.

Chloe Bower, who has worked for H&M for 20 years, said: “The refurb looks great and we’re all really pleased with the outcome.

“We’re also incredibly proud to be the only store, apart from the one in Oxford Circus, to have a shoe department as well as being the fifth flagship store to have a homewear department so this will really bring something new to The Oracle.”

She added: “We have taken extra steps by increasing security but we like to keep our staff and customers safe.”

The Oracle unit, which has been open for 16 years, now has new flooring, lighting and the changing rooms have been given a new ‘boudoir’ design.

Full-time mother-of-two Louise Wells, of Southcote, said: “I’ve waiting for the shop to open since about 8.30am because I really wanted to be the first one inside.

“I love clothes and I think I’m really lucky to live in a place like Reading where we have such a great high street.”

The 28-year-old added: “It’s my birthday soon so I’m looking for something today I can wear on a night out with my mates next weekend.”

The company have also hired a further 25 staff to their original 40 employees.