SHOPPERS are expected to flock to the long-awaited opening of Wilkinson Bishop Auckland.

The new store, which has created about 80 new jobs, opens its doors for the first time in the Newgate Centre tomorrow

Traders hope it will attract more people to the north end of the town after months of upheaval.

The Newgate Centre has undergone a £2m revamp since Asda moved to its new store in South Church Road last November. The renovation lasted six months with the centre re-opening last month. It has since been bought by developers Oakgate.

To celebrate the opening of the Wilkinson store, from 9am shoppers can enjoy entertainment from Rodney the Smoke Breathing Dragon and free balloons, sweets and masks for younger children. There will be free face painting for youngsters on Saturday.