Thirty new jobs have been created by a new discount shop on Strood Retail Park.

Poundworld opened today in the former Brantano shoe store next to Argos - an opposite Poundland.

Former staff that worked at the Brantano store before it closed down in February have been encouraged to apply for a role within the Poundworld team.

It is the 334thstore in in the UK for Poundworld as it continues with plans to open 60 new stores this year creating 1,800 jobs. The retailer already has a store in Chatham High Street.

The Strood stored was declared officially open by deputy mayor Cllr Gloria Opara.

The new store will stock more than 5,000 products including gardening, groceries, cleaning, health and beauty, baby care, pet care, toys and craft.

Top branded items will be on sale including Coca Cola, Colgate and Johnson’s.

Darius Slabik, Poundworld area manager said: “We’re really excited to be opening our first store in Strood, breathing life in to the former Brantano store and creating 30 new jobs too.

“We hope shoppers will take advantage of the free parking and excellent range of fantastic value deals and exclusive summer items we have to offer.”