Scores of jobs are being created with the opening of a new discount store in Oxford.

Rapidly-expanding chain Wilkinson is recruiting about 80 full and part-time staff for the development on the former Sainsbury's site at Templars Square, Cowley.

The 22,000 sq ft unit will open in late summer and a spokesman said the emphasis would be on creating jobs for the immediate area. "We are a family-owned company and a community retailer," he added.

Wilkinson, which specialises in discounted household goods, recently opened its 200th store and is growing at the rate of 20 stores a year, leading to its claim of being the UK's fastest-growing independent retailer.

It promises a policy of ensuring prices are the same in stores across the country.

Applications are being handled at Oxford Job Centre in Worcester Street.