A HOME furnishings firm, founded in the North-East by two RAF men, is spending nearly £1m to continue expanding in the South.

Barker and Stonehouse is opening a store in Brighton and Hove.

The company says the move will create 25 jobs and involve the conversion of a 35,000sq ft space.

James Barker, managing director, said: “Our plans to expand into the South-East are really taking shape.

“The store will have a breadth of products and quirky touches that make shopping with us an exciting customer experience.

“We have built up a loyal following at each of our stores due to the wide choice of quality products and the excellent customer service.”

The company already has a store in Battersea, South London, and has permission to build a shop in Guildford, Surrey, on the site of an old fire station.

Founded by Charles Barker and Alex Stonehouse, who opened their first store in Bishopton Lane, Stockton, in 1946, the business grew and opened a shop in Middlesbrough’s Newport Road when the duo were joined by Charles’ brother, Frank.

It now employs more than 300 people and has further stores in Hull and Knaresborough, North Yorkshire.