A NEW store in Derby selling goods for outdoor leisure activities is looking forward to its first weekend of trading.
Go Outdoors has opened its latest store in Ascot Drive, following a fit-out costing more than £1.3 million.
Employing more than 50 staff, the outlet stocks a range of kit for walking, climbing, camping, skiing, fishing, running and horse riding.
The Derby outlet is the national chain's 49th UK store and its first in the city.
It is in a building formerly occupied by homeware and furniture store Dunelm. The property had been empty since December, 2011, when Dunelm moved to the former home of DIY business B&Q at the corner of Ascot Drive and London Road.
This week the Mayor of Derby, Councillor Shiraz Khan, formally opened the Go Outdoors store, which features a "tent field" with more than 30 tents, more than 2,000 camping products, dedicated areas for cycling and fishing, plus a range of climbing, running and horse riding equipment.
Paul Rodenhurst, the outlet's general manager, who moved from a Go Outdoors store in Wolverhampton, said: "I'm thrilled to be opening the first Go Outdoors in Derby. There is a real demand within the local community, as many like to explore the nearby Peak District.
"We've employed 51 in-store team members that are enthusiastic about all things outdoors, for shoppers to be given expert information. As the team live and breathe outdoor adventures, our shoppers really will get genuine expertise whether it's their first time trying a hobby, or they're weathered professionals looking for new gear."
Now, the store is preparing to mark its first full weekend of trading with special offers and promotions on a range of goods tomorrow.
