Aldi is planning an eco-friendly roof planted with Alpine plants on a new store in Ludlow.

Aldi has been looking for a site in the town for 10 years and if planning permission is granted, the store could open by Christmas.

Plants on the roof will change colour through the seasons, retain heat and attract wildlife. The roof has also been designed to capture rainwater.

"The store would attract more shoppers and help keep trade local to the town," said Aldi property director Richard Labbett. "It will be the first roof of its kind we have done. We are excited at the prospect of promoting this kind of eco-friendly approach at our newest branch."

Ludlow is known for its large number of independent specialist food retailers. Last year it was the centre of a bitter row between Tesco and Harry Tuffins after Tuffins' MD Paul Delves accused Tesco of trying to sabotage its new store opening by distributing a deep-discount voucher.