A NEW £1m store will open in Bishop Auckland this weekend, while another will close for refurbishment.

Focus DIY will officially open today, but Woolworths, in the town centre, will close tomorrow for a revamp.

The new Focus, in Fylands Drive, is opening in place of the existing store on St Helen's Industrial Estate. It covers 22,500 sq ft, with an 10,000 sq ft garden centre.

Store manager Steve Laidlaw, who will release balloons to mark the opening at 9am, said: "We hope things will get off to a flying start at the new Focus.

"We look forward to welcoming old and new customers through the doors."

However, as one door opens, another is closing, with Woolworths shut down for almost a fortnight.

The store has been in the town's Newgate Street for many years, but will close tomorrow while it is given a new layout.

"The team is very excited and can't wait to open the doors," said store manager Stephen Chrisite.

"We have new product ranges to offer, in fantastic surroundings, and are certain that our customers won't be disappointed."

The store will be reopened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and balloons, at 10am on Thursday, October 6.