AN OUTDOOR superstore is opening in Blackburn, creating 40 new jobs.

GO Outdoors will open its doors in Throstle Street, Bank Top, by the end of next month after bosses took over the former Focus DIY store.

Focus closed its doors in 2008 after being named as one of the chain’s underperforming stores nationwide.

22 employees lost their jobs.

The new 50,000-square feet GO Outdoors store will include a six-metre high climbing wall and a hand-made timber path walk through for customers entering the outlet.

Store manager Neil Kettle said: “Blackburn will be an important store for GO Outdoors. East Lancashire is a wonderful area for outdoor activity, enjoying the beautiful countryside of the Trough of Bowland, the Pennines and Pendle.

“With camping in the UK enjoying a surge of interest this year and last, we’re looking forward to giving Blackburn and the surrounding areas one of the most vibrant outdoor retail experiences in the country."

GO Outdoors said its new store will feature more than 20,000 lines, from walking boots and fleeces to ski-wear and cycling equipment.

Bosses said they hoped it would be open by the end of the month.

Coun Mohammed Khan, whose ward covers the store, said: “Any new jobs in this area or anywhere in Blackburn are to be welcomed.”