MKM has opened the doors to its latest branch, in Sunderland, with help from former local goalkeeper Jimmy Montgomery.

The ex-Sunderland AFC player, who made more than 500 appearances for the team across the 1960s and 70s, was guest of honour as MKM unveiled its newest branch on 13 December.

MKM Sunderland brings together a comprehensive landscaping, building and trade product portfolio with a kitchen and bathroom showroom. The branch is the first in the business’s extensive national network to feature a retail-specific entrance – making it easier than ever before for homeowners to access MKM’s leading kitchen and bathroom offering.

As well as a chance to look around the brand-new site, visitors to MKM Sunderland’s open day had a chance to meet Jimmy Montgomery, who gave away 10 signed footballs and Sunderland AFC shirts.

Representatives of Foundation of Light, the official charity of Sunderland AFC, were also in attendance on the day. Foundation of Light harnesses the power of football to involve, educate and inspire thousands of children, adults and families across the North East, and is also the chosen charity partner for MKM’s Sunderland branch.

The new branch is headed up by three directors – Andy Docherty, Steven Rochester and Jamie Garnett – who, between them, have decades of experience within the merchant sector.

Speaking at the launch, Branch Co-Director Andy Docherty said: “It’s fantastic to have finally opened the doors of this amazing branch to the builders, tradespeople and homeowners of Sunderland. As well as an unbeatable range of building supplies available at our trade counter, we’re excited to be showcasing our kitchen and bathroom showroom – a really stunning addition to the branch. Jamie, Steven and myself are proud of the team we’ve assembled, and we’re so happy to be up and running and doing what we do best.”

Kate Tinsley, CEO at MKM Building Supplies, added: “After a 12 months of branch openings, it’s great to end the year on such a high. The new MKM Sunderland branch looks absolutely fantastic, with a particularly impressive kitchen and bathroom showroom, and I have every confidence they’ll prove to be a key addition to our growing national network.”