A JOBS bonanza is promised with the opening of Dunelm Mill, one of the country's largest soft furnishings retailers, in a Kent town.

Around 100 jobs will be created when a new 28,200 sq ft store opens at Sittingbourne Retail Park in late spring.

Recruiting has started with up to 30 per cent of vacancies on offer to the long-term sick, single parents and the disabled.

The store was due to open in March, but the company has said April or May is more likely now.

Dunelm Mill has signed up to the Local Employment Partnership scheme operated by the Job Centre.

The move is a major vote of confidence to Sittingbourne’s regeneration potential.

Dunelm development director James Rowell, said: "Sittingbourne was chosen for its great location and the fact that there has been a strong customer demand for our simple value-for-money homeware products."

The company has more than 85 stores nationwide and employs more than 5,000 staff.