A STANDALONE store selling budget stationery items has been opened within Darlington's WHSmith store.

The Clearance Outlet sells end-of-range books and stationery for as little as 20p and will open in the retailer's Cornmill Centre shop.

There are about 3,500 products on sale including pens, pencils and pencil cases, office stationery, education and reference books, as well as toys and games.

The retailer said prices were from 20p and most products were under £3.

Store Manager, Dean Swinden said he was 'delighted' to have opened the Clearance Outlet within the store.

He added: “We hope that the arrival of this new outlet will complement the great ranges already available within our store, as well as attract new customers to benefit from some fantastic prices.”

It is hoped the new concept will bring in extra customers and increase footfall into the store.

WHSmith high street sales have been dropping in recent years, although the company's profits have been boosted by its travel stores. It has been opening clearance outlets across the country.