A big new toy store is due to open its doors to parents and children in time for Christmas at the Ashford Retail Park, Sevington.

Smyths Toys first revealed its plans to move into the 15,000 sq ft store at the retail park last April.

It followed an announcement by Dixons Carphone, the parent company of PC World, that the existing shop would be closed and staff would be moved into its store at the Gallagher Retail Park in Norman Road.

Then in June Ashford Borough Council’s planning officers granted Smyths Toys permission to change unit five, in Barrey Road, and to put up new signs.

Now the Irish company has announced its opening is to take place from 9am on Wednesday, October 19, with a number of guests making an appearance during the day.

Spokesman Aoife Cassidy said: “There’ll also be free face-painting, candy floss and plenty of goodies to give away on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.

“Children living in Ashford are in for a real treat with the opening of the new store right on their doorstep.”

The shop will be stocked with a huge range of toys, video games, bikes, baby products and outdoor equipment like trampolines, swings and see-saws and is part of the company’s bid to compete against retailer Toys R Us.

Smyths runs 21 stores in the Republic of Ireland and 74 across the United Kingdom, including outlets at the South Aylesford Retail Park, near Maidstone, and Westwood Cross, in Thanet.

New shop manager Natalie Piper said: “We’re thrilled to be opening a new store in Ashford. There’s sure to be a tremendous sense of fun and enjoyment and we invite everyone down for the opening day party.”