Bishop Auckland workers are queuing up for jobs at a new home and gardens store, even though it is not due to open for another three months.

Fast-growing retailer Wilkinson has already taken 1,500 applications for the 70 jobs on offer at its new development in the Newgate Centre, which should be open for business in August.

The company is taking over the former Asda site following the supermarket's move to the other end of town and neighbouring retailers hope its arrival will prove a boost for trade.

Wilkinson bosses predict the opening will breathe new life into the centre of Bishop Auckland.

Store manager Keith Short said: "Wilkinson is delighted to be arriving in Bishop Auckland and we are now looking forward to taking on our new team members and contributing to the growth of the local economy when we open. We have had a great first response from the people of Bishop Auckland to news that Wilkinson is coming to town.

"So far we have had more than 1,500 applications for the full range of retail jobs on offer."

Some key positions are still available and details can be found at Bishop Auckland Job Centre in the Market Place, on the company website at www.wilko.co.uk.