AROUND 100 part-time and full-time jobs will be created when The Range opens a D-I-Y store in Taunton in July.

The Plymouth-based company, which also sells arts and crafts, furniture and homewares, will be located at Hankridge Way.

It is taking over the premises currently occupied by Homebase, which is closing its doors next Saturday, May 2.

The Range store will be split over two floors and will also feature a garden centre and family cafe.

The new jobs will include store and department managers to warehouse workers and administrators.

Owner Chris Dawson said: “We feel that The Range is a unique shopping experience that has something for everyone and we are confident that the people of Taunton will enjoy what The Range has to offer.

“The Range is always excited about opening a new store and Taunton is no exception.

“We hope to be an integral part of the community in Taunton. I would personally like to thank the council for welcoming us and being so supportive.

“I look forward to inviting the people of Taunton to experience what The Range is all about.”

A total of 35 jobs are going at Homebase, which is currently selling off some of its stock at knock down rates, although the firm has offered workers positions in other Homebase or Argos stores, which are both owned by Home Retail Group, or interviews with The Range.