A new branch of discount retailer Poundstretcher opened in Sittingbourne today.

The bargain store has invested £500,000 in remodelling a unit in The Forum Shopping Centre left vacant by Tesco after it closed last month.

The new store opened at 10am with £3,000-worth of deals being offered to customers.

The first five people in line had the chance to buy a Hyundai fireplace, normally £229.99, for £15.

The next 10 were able to grab a faux leather double bed worth £99.99 for £10 and the next 15 got a glass television stand worth £49.99 for just £5.

After that, the next 175 customers had the chance to get a washable rug worth £9.99 for £4.99.

There will be other offers throughout the day and a fun day with activities for families is taking place until 4pm, including free games, prize giveaways and the chance to win products.

Another fun day will also be held at the store the following Saturday from 10am until 4pm with similar activities.

Mayor of Swale, Cllr Colin Prescott, will be cutting the ribbon at the new store.

Poundstretcher has recruited 25 full and part-time members of staff.

Area manager, Lee Dolby, said: “We are pleased to be opening a brand new store for the people of Sittingbourne with loads of fantastic branded products, all at bargain prices.

“The team is working hard to deliver an outstanding shopping experience, great service and an enjoyable shopping environment for all our new customers.

“We are expecting massive queues for our opening-day-only specials, so come early to catch the bargains.”

In November last year, hundreds of people queued outside Poundstretcher in Sheerness on its opening day.

Some waited out front for hours ahead of the unveiling, while one man even camped overnight.

There was disappointment, however. The first five people bagged a vacuum, only to discover they were faulty.

Poundstretcher acted quickly to resolve the issue and they each received replacements.