RETAILER Screwfix is to open its first store in Bromsgrove. The new branch in Sherwood Road - the company's 347th in the UK - will create an additional 12 jobs and is part of a nationwide expansion plan.

Screwfix’s new Bromsgrove store manager, Will Asquith said: "We’ve created 12 brand new vacancies and have consciously chosen to employ local people from around the Bromsgrove area. Our new team includes people of all ages and levels of experience, but the most important requirement is that they have the right attitude and can offer superb customer service. Everyone here is really looking forward to the store opening.”

Doors will open on Thursday, July 17 when tradesmen and DIYers can also demonstrate their skills in a free-to-enter screw drilling competition. The fastest time wins a 40in Toshiba flat screen TV.

Mr Asquith added: "I’m confident that we’ve got a great location here at the Bromsgrove store. My team and I have already been out and about getting to know local businesses and tradesmen and we’ve all been very pleased with how supportive everybody has been. At Screwfix we pride ourselves on meeting the needs of today’s busy tradesmen with a speedy, reliable and convenient service, plus quality value-for-money products."