A LEADING national stockist of trade supplies has opened a branch in the Tyne Valley, creating seven new jobs in the process.

Toolstation has added to its network of more than 360 branches nationwide by opening a store on the Bridge End Industrial Estate, in Hexham.

It is the 10th branch in the North-East and just the second in Northumberland, the only other being in Ashington.

The Tyne Valley store will be open seven days a week with the aim of making it easier for people to access at most times.

Ross McDonald, the branch manager, was looking forward to meeting local customers. He said: “It’s great to open our new branch in Hexham and to introduce ourselves to the trade locally.

“Our team here really does pride itself on making it quick and easy for our customers to get their trade supplies by calling in or using our click and collect service.

“We are looking forward to lending a hand to the tradespeople nearby, offering the best products for the jobs they have.”

The store will offer a wide range of essential trade supplies, such as screws, cables, plumbing fittings and power tools, and will stock leading brands such as Makita, Stanley, DeWalt, Mira and Crown Paints.