M5 Gloucester Services opens with 'first' fishmonger

Westmoreland said the services would only stock sustainably sourced fish caught in UK waters

A new service station bringing fresh fish and meat to the travelling masses has opened on the southbound M5.

The Gloucester station claims to be the first to introduce a fishmonger to the motorway alongside its on-site butcher, patisserie and chocolatier.

The northbound services, near junction 12, opened in May 2014 after years of planning debate and appeals.

Operator Westmoreland has spent about £40m on both services, with around 300 people expected to be employed.

Chief executive Sarah Dunning, said the company had "raised eyebrows" when it unveiled the idea.

She added: "Why shouldn't you be able to pick up fresh fish caught in British waters on your way home from work or on your way to a holiday cottage?"

Some 300 people will be employed at the northbound and southbound services