THE fashion retailer Next will open a new store on the Strood Retail Park on Wednesday, June 1. The venture is expected to create more than 50 new jobs.

The new store will sell women's and children's wear on the ground floor and men's wear on the second floor.

During the two weeks after the store's opening, shoppers will be given the opportunity to take part in a prize draw. They stand a chance to win £250 gift vouchers.

The store will be open 9am to 8pm, Monday to Friday, from 9am to 6pm on Saturdays and 10am to 4pm on Sundays. Parking will be free.

The company has more than 380 stores in the UK and Eire as well as 80 franchised stores overseas. It also has a catalogue business through Next Directory.