Shoe retailer Clarks is preparing to move back into Kidderminster and take a unit in the Weavers Wharf centre. Its new store is due to open on August 18.

The store will move into premises formerly occupied by Co-operative Travel which recently relocated to Vicar Street in the town.

John Keery, public relations manager for C & J Clark Ltd, said: “This is seen as a good move for the company, and we see the town as the ideal place for a store. Obviously, we are hoping Kidderminster will be good for business.”

The numbers of staff to be recruited to work at the store are not yet known.

News of the opening has been welcomed by civic leaders who are promoting the Wyre Forest district to shopkeepers and also to companies wanting to expand and relocate.

Debenhams has announced it is also coming into the town and taking space at the Weavers Wharf shopping centre development.

Jackie Roberts, town centre manager for Kidderminster, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Clarks shoes is taking space in the town.

“Clarks had a store at the Rowland Hill Centre many years ago. It is great to welcome the business back into the town.”