RETAILER Sports Direct is creating scores of jobs in a new North Yorkshire store.

The firm, founded by Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley, is opening an 8,000sq ft site, in Catterick Garrison, which will deliver at least 44 roles.

The shop is due to open on Saturday, July 11.

A spokesperson said: “As we continue to grow throughout the UK, our ethos has never changed in that we offer our customers the biggest brands in all types of sportswear, footwear and sports equipment at low prices.”

Last year, Sports Direct, which has stores across the North-East, unveiled plans to open hundreds of cut-price gyms to maintain its expansion.

Bosses said they want to set up 200 sites across the UK, charging £5 a month, to put pressure on experienced operators, such as David Lloyd Leisure and Bannatyne Health and Fitness.

It now has a number of gyms throughout the country, and previously told The Northern Echo it has not ruled out setting up bases in the North-East.