THIRTY four jobs will be created by the opening of a new store this week.

Poundland opens in Stafford on Thursday, and the store has recruited 13 ex-Woolworths employees, including the assistant manager, two supervisors and 10 sales staff.

The new store will offer well-known branded goods and everyday products.

Poundland's trading director David Coxon said: "We're absolutely thrilled to be opening another store and helping ex-Woolworths staff back into employment during these tough times.

"We have a very strong presence in the Midlands with our head office located in Willenhall.

"Shoppers in Stafford are extremely savvy and I'm sure they will be delighted by the amazing value Poundland offers."

Propertyweek.com reported last month that Poundland had taken a 6,170 sq ft unit at the Guildhall Shopping Centre in Stafford. The deal involved a 10-year lease at £150,000-a-year.