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A queue of hundreds of excited customers was seen stretched down the street in one UK city this morning as a new arrival was set to open. Several high street chains have announced expansions across the UK as others close stores, giving shoppers something to look forward to. One of the newest arrivals was a hobby store opening in Norwich, with a massive queue forming on the morning of Saturday, May 2.

Cosplayers were spotted dressed as characters from their favourite comic books and games as the new Forbidden Planet store opened on St Stephen Street in the city centre. The new store has opened in the former Brighthouse unit. The chain, which already has several stores in cities across the UK, sells products relating to popular science fiction franchises, cult entertainment memorabilia and pop culture figurines. The store opened at 10am, but queues were seen forming as early as 8am.

"We're throwing open the doors to our brand new store with a massive celebration for the pop culture enthusiasts of Norwich," the chain had said in an announcement to customers.

"With endless comics, manga, action figures, Funko figures, plushies, trading cards, Pop Mart goodies, merch, and so much more on offer, giving us a visit on May 2nd is a must!"

Local publication The Eastern Daily Press reported that some fans set up chairs to camp out as early as 1am. One woman, dressed as The Joker, said she had already waited for two and a half hours by the time she was at the midway point in the queue.

"The queue has been constant. It's not going down this morning. There are 55 people allowed in the store at one time," one local told the publication.

There were several offers today to mark the opening. Those dressed in cosplay received 10% off their purchases, while the first 100 customers received a free goodie bag.

Forbidden Planet is the world's largest and best-known science fiction, fantasy and cult entertainment retailer, and the largest stockist of the latest comics and graphic novels in the UK. It has several stores in London as well as locations in Liverpool, Cambridge, Newcastle, Coventry and Southampton.

There is a total of 18 Forbidden Planet stores across the UK and Ireland. A spokesman for Forbidden Planet said: "The energy this morning is out of this world! A massive thank you to everyone who queued. You all look fantastic.

"Shopping is in full swing now, and the store is buzzing. Let's make this grand opening one to remember."

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