NORTH-WEST Durham MP Hilary Armstrong has visited a store opening in her constituency.

Matalan is opening a 26,000 sq ft outlet on the Hermiston Retail Park, Consett, on Thursday.

Ms Armstrong, who was given a tour by store manager Cheryl Hudson said: "This new store is great news for the area.

"We've very much welcomed Matalan's decision to open a store here in Consett. Not only has it created over 60 new jobs in the area but it also provides a much needed link to the high street."

The store, which sells clothes and homeware, will be opened by an international celebrity footballer, whose identity is being kept under wraps.