WATCH IT, one of the seven original shops which opened in Eldon Square in 1976, has been taken over by new management.

The Newcastle shopping centre jewellers has been refitted at a cost of £80,000.

The company's new director Alex Conn, originally from Middlesbrough, has kept on many of the Watch It staff, including the manager Gill Hurst and assistant manager Karon Redhead.

George McDonald, centre manager for Eldon Square, said: "The new management of Watch It have the benefit of staff who really know the business, in a store with an excellent reputation and a strong client base to build on.

"The new shopfit makes the store an important addition to the retail offer on High Friars."

Mr Conn, who has 18 years experience in the watch trade, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming back former customers."

Watch It will continue to provide a fast and reliable jewellery and watch repair service, with minor repairs being done on site.

More serious repairs will be carried out at a local workshop, where Watch It has access to qualified and experienced watchmakers.