A NEW Aldi store is set to open on the outskirts of Taunton in time for the Christmas shopping rush.

The finishing touches are being put to the premises in Bathpool ahead of the grand opening on Thursday, November 16.

The discount outlet, which will create up to 50 jobs, is on the site of the former J&K Aquatics, which has relocated to North Petherton.

Somerset County Gazette:

A spokesman for Aldi, whose closest store is in Bridgwater, said: "We’re looking forward to opening our new Taunton store on November 16 and helping the community to shop and save closer to home."

Officers at Taunton Deane Borough Council who had recommended refusing the company's planning application, were overruled by councillors after members of the community strongly supported the scheme.