THE Original Factory Shop chain of department stores is to open its new outlet in the old Westgate building in Cinderford on February 20.

The company has already been busy recruiting staff, from store manager to general sales, for the new shop.

The building is owned by Midcounties Co-operative Society which agreed to leasing the building late last year.

Contractors are currently working to get the 11,000 sq ft building, vacated by Real Deal in May last year, ready for the February opening.

A Factory Shop spokesman said: “We’re really excited to be part of Cinderford development by creating jobs within the local community.”

The Original Factory Shop, which has more than 200 branches in the UK, including Lydney, Ross-on-Wye and Chepstow, stocks discount lines in fashion, beauty and gifts, home and garden, electrical, furniture and leisure.

Unlike many other budget outlets, The Original Factory Shop sells recognised brands such as Levi, Adidas, Flymo, Hoover, Philips and Russell Hobbs at heavily discounted prices.

Max Coborn, Mayor of Cinderford, said: “It will be good for the town. Anything looks better than an empty shop.”