SCORES of jobs are being created and there’ll be dozens of freebies for customers when The Range opens a DIY store and garden centre next week.

Work on creating a modern superstore with 16 departments over two floors in Hankridge Way, Taunton, is nearly complete, with the first customers being admitted at 9am next Friday, July 31.

The former Homebase building will be opened by The Range’s owner Chris Dawson, who will be joined by Taunton Deane Mayor Cllr Marcia Hill and the company’s mascot Captain Range, who will provide balloons and entertainment.

The first 50 people in the queue will be given Regatta jackets and one lucky winner will receive £250 of vouchers to spend in the store.

Mr Dawson said the store has created around 80 jobs from sales assistants to store managers.

He added: “Each store plays an important part in the success of our company and it is essential that we have the right employees.

“We are very lucky with the staff we have and look forward to inviting the new team members to the company.

“I would like to thank the council for welcoming us to Taunton.”

He added: “Opening a store in the South-West of England, where The Range began 25 years ago, is always a proud moment for me.

“The new store in Taunton is located right at the heart of some already popular sites so is sure to attract plenty of customers.

“We look forward to welcoming the local community down to the opening to experience the variety of products The Range has to offer.”