SHOPPERS got their first peek at refurbishment work on a renowned Darlington store yesterday.

The former Dressers stationery premises, in High Row, was shut down in 2001 and has faced a long wait to be rejuvenated.

But the Bertie clothing company, of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, has acquired the site and is in the process of transforming it.

Yesterday, curious shoppers were able to see some of the work in progress as part of the boards at the front of the building were taken away.

The store is expected to open at Easter next year