MUSIC and games giant HMV is opening a store in Ashford in time for Christmas, creating up to 15 new jobs.

The chain is to take a 4,000 square foot unit at the town's County Square shopping mall.

Although the store's manager and deputy manager will be brought in from another HMV store in Kent, the opening will create between 10 and 15 full and part-time jobs for Ashford people.

HMV spokesman Gennaro Castaldo said: "We are all very excited about the prospect of coming to Ashford. We have secured a unit with a trading area large enough to present our full range of CDs, DVDs, videos and games.

"We will bring in a management team but the new store will create up to 15 permanent jobs. We hope to be open in time for people to shop for Christmas presents."