TESCO has created 70 new jobs with the expansion of its Tesco Extra store in Coldfield Drive, Redditch.

More than 840 staff are now employed at the supermarket, which has become one of the biggest stores in the West Midlands after a first floor extension.

Store manager Rob Taylor said: "The new jobs that have been created with the first floor extension will enable more local people to enjoy a sucessful and fulfilling career with Tesco."

More than 500 people applied for the posts - which ranged from security staff to checkout personnel - and have all now been filled.

The store is now 102,000 sq ft and new attractions on the first floor incude a large family clothing department and an electrical entertainment centre, with features including CD burning stations.

The upstairs will also house a telecoms centre and photograph processing, which have been relocated.

Customers can be transported to the first floor by a new lift or a travelator, similar to those found in airports.

Downstairs, there is a new opticians', expanded health and beauty and baby sections plus a revamped pharmacy, now dispensing prescriptions.

The homeshop, cookshop, DIY and car car departments have been expanded, food ranges improved and aisles widened to ease congestion.

Mr Taylor thanked shoppers for their patience while the building work was carried out.

"We would like to reassure customers the disruption is nearly over and I'm confident our shoppers will like the much needed improvements and additions we have made to the store," he said.

The store's official relaunch will be on Monday, November 6.