A fashion retailer launched its first store in the region at the weekend. Coast opened an outlet in the Red Mall of the Gateshead MetroCentre.

The move is part of an expansion by the chain, which has recently opened ten stand-alone stores and 31 concessions.

It operates concessions in Debenhams and House of Fraser, at the MetroCentre. It is part of the Bauger group, which owns Oasis, Whistles and Karen Millen.