A BUDGET retailer has opened a store in Andover's Chantry Centre, creating 18 new jobs.

Poundstretcher had its soft opening this morning.

The chain retailer has taken over a unit at the front of the shopping centre, which was previously occupied by Tesco.

The unit had been vacant since the supermarket giant quit The Chantry Centre three years ago, in March 2014.

It is the third "discount" chain to open in the town centre, alongside Poundworld and Poundland.

The regional controller of the area, Shahid Kissay, said: “We look forward to offering our customers in Andover an extended range of products from food, toiletries, gardening, home ware and, of course, pets with The Pet Hut store.

"The team are working hard to deliver an outstanding shopping experience for our new customers with great service and an enjoyable shopping environment.”

Poundstretcher confirmed fully launch on Saturday at 9am with the Mayor of Test Valley, councillor Carl Borg-Neal, offically opening the shop.