A new DFS store will open its doors to customers for the first time tomorrow (Saturday) from 9am.

The Mayor of Ashford, George Koowaree will announce the store open for trading as the new outlet becomes the final occupant of units at the recently revamped retail park off the A2070 at Sevington.

The new store attracted over 50 job applicants to fill the managerial and sales staff roles it has created.

Darren Porter, the store manager said: “We couldn’t be happier opening our newest store in Ashford. It’s a fantastic location and the store will be a great addition to the local retail landscape.”

Mayor George Koowaree, added: “Welcoming a company such as DFS into Ashford is testament to the strong retail growth experienced in the community and adds to our already robust offering of national retailers."

The store, located next to the recently opened Tapi Carpets store, will sell a wide range of sofas, chairs, recliners and sofa beds and accessories.

Other national retailers on the retail park include Argos, Boots, Dunelm, B&M Bargains, Hobbycraft, Dreams and Carphone Warehouse.

But there will be concern that the DFS opening will add to the existing traffic problems on the Ashford Retail Park.

Campaigners have been fighting for access and exit improvements at the junction with the A2070, which they have dubbed a potential 'death trap'.

Nationally, DFS has been trading for almost five decades.

Representatives from the Ashford town centre British Heart Foundation (BHF) store will also be present at the opening, as well as charity group Porchlight – who will receive a special £200 donation.

DFS has an ongoing charity partnership with BHF, which allows customers to have their old sofa collected for free by the charity when they purchase a new one from DFS.