AN Argos depot that will create 700 jobs in Darlington started its first deliveries this week.

The company's home delivery warehouse in Faverdale, Darlington, employs about 300 people.

Once fully staffed, the 740,000 sq ft distribution warehouse is expected to create about 700 jobs including office administration, IT support, warehousing, driving and maintenance.

Faverdale is the third regional centre for Argos Home Delivery and will serve the north of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The warehouse will distribute a range of delivery-only goods, such as beds, sofas and leisure equipment.

The site covers about half of Darlington's new 86-acre Faverdale East Business Park.

David Lyonette, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for economic regeneration said: "We are delighted that Argos has chosen Darlington for its distribution warehouse. It is further proof that our business parks and industrial estates are an ideal base for national and international companies."

The official opening will be later this year.