Shoppers are enjoying a special day of celebration at Norwich's John Lewis today as the store marks the completion of its �7m revamp.

For the past 16 weeks the All Saints Green store has undergone major refurbishment, and today its finished new-look has been officially launched.

There were big cheers from staff at John Lewis Norwich as the ribbon was cut by Phil Kettle, 58, who has worked there for 38 years.

Mr Kettle, 58 and from Sprowston, said he was honoured to take part in the official launch.

'The revamp is brilliant. They have done an excellent job,' he added.

Twenty-year-old Hollie Harvey, from Old Catton and who works in the fashion accessories department, was also involved in the ribbon cutting ceremony. She was joined by her mum Alison Harvey, 44, and grandmother Gillian Artherton, 78, who have both visited the store nearly every Saturday for the last 25 years because they said it is such a lovely place to shop.

When asked about the revamp, Mrs Artherton, from Eaton, said: 'It's smashing. I love it. Everything looks great.'

Throughout today shoppers can enjoy a whole range of entertainment at the store including ice sculpture carving, fashion workshops, a children's Christmas hunt, and music from Norwich City Concert Band, a jazz band, and a harpist.

Richard Marks, the store's general manager, said: 'It is fabulous to have the project finished in time for Christmas. We have had 16 weeks of refurbishing the shop from top to bottom including new lighting, new flooring, bigger departments and upgrading many facilities.

'It is a fabulous day and I feel very proud of the team here who have worked so hard throughout the refurbishment.'

Robert Hallam, the store's managing director, described the refurbishment as an extension of the store's heritage in the city.

'It is the next chapter of John Lewis Norwich, building on what we have done for well over 100 years on this site,' he said.

'The initial responses we have had from our partners (employees) and shoppers has been one of real delight which is great.'