A CITY’S economy got a much-needed shot in the arm today, as a major new store opened with the creation of nearly 60 jobs.

Home and garden retailer Wilkinson opened its new 19,000sq ft store in The Gates shopping centre, in Durham, filling a retail hole left gaping for nearly three years.

The upmarket supermarket Waitrose closed its 18,000sq ft Gates branch in August 2008, with the loss of more than 100 jobs.

Wilkinson’s arrival, with 31 permanent and 28 temporary posts, represents the first significant private sector job creation in the city for some time.

When the firm began recruiting, more than 1,000 people queued to apply for work.

Inge Johnson, manager of The Gates, said: "This is a major store opening for the city and underpins our offering here at The Gates.

"Wilkinson is a major retailer and we are delighted to be creating so many jobs."

An opening ceremony was held at the store today at 9am, with Margaret Liddle, a foster mother with the Barnardos charity, cutting the ribbon with Anthony Smith, from Durham Musical Theatre Company (DMTC), Stuart Mitchell, Wilkinson’s chief executive, and store manager Jan Lawrence.

The first 50 customers through the doors got free goody bags and DMTC members sung songs from the musicals. Wilkinson donated £500 each to DMTC and Barnardos Fostering and Adoption North East.

There was in-store entertainment and a range of competitions throughout the day.

Ms Lawrence said: "The opening day was a fantastic success and I want to thank the team for their hard work and dedication, which ensured that the store was ready on time."

On Saturday, mothers are invited to enjoy free in-store pampering to celebrate Mothering Sunday. The event will run from 11am to 3pm.

Over the last 18 months, The Gates has seen increased visitors, attracted several new businesses and near-doubled its car parking capacity to 470 spaces.

The Northern Echo first revealed Wilkinson’s interest in taking over the former Waitrose site in January 2009. Its opening, following a series of high-profile closures, has raised hopes for Durham’s retail future.