DEPARTMENT store TJ Hughes opens up in Hanley's former Woolworths branch next week.

More than 100 people have been recruited to work at the Upper Market Square store, which opens on Tuesday, September 8.

Eight of the recruits used to work in Hanley's former Woolworths store until the chain's collapse last Christmas.

TJ Hughes has spent more than £1 million refitting the shop, which was stripped bare before the closure of the branch.

Sales director Chris McKeown said: "We are delighted to be opening on September 8.

"We are certain shoppers in Hanley will enjoy shopping at TJ Hughes."

Hanley's Woolworths branch closed for the last time on December 27.

Sixty-five workers lost their jobs as a result of the store closure.

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