Mark Watson, retail operations manager for Cards Direct, said: "We are really excited to be able to open in Queensgate this week, which has been a priority target destination for us for some time, following earlier store opening in surrounding towns such as Huntingdon, Kings Lynn and Northampton.

"Cards Direct offers a huge selection of high-quality greetings cards, gifts, gift wrap, balloons and partyware for every occasion. By making us your local card shop you'll find we offer everything at direct from the factory prices, with 99% of our cards designed and produced at our factory here in the UK.

"Our store manager Sue and her team are on hand to help the people of Peterborough and surrounding areas celebrate life’s important occasions with a smile."

The store has opened on Queensgate's upper level, next to Swarovski.

The arrival of the business in Peterborough has seen 10 new jobs created.

Mark Broadhead, Queensgate's centre director said: “We’re delighted to welcome Cards Direct to the centre and wish the team all the very best in their venture at Queensgate.

“With many businesses back open and a progressive return to normality, we’re starting to see increasing interest in new retailers committing to the centre.

"Cards Direct will be a welcome addition to the centre and give our visitors more quality choice for everyday essentials and luxuries.”