DISCOUNT retailer T J Hughes, which is investing more than £2 million in its two East Lancashire stores, has announced a 66 per cent rise in profits.

Sales across the group's shops in the last financial year jumped 19 per cent to £75 million.

Earlier this month the firm opened its new flagship store in Blackburn town centre and is due to open another in Burnley later this year.

"These figures represent a tribute to TJ Hughes' successful and resilient retail formula," said chairman Eric Hodges.

"The accelerated store development programme will mean that we will enter the peak autumn and Christmas trading period with 21 stores and a 40 per cent increase in selling space."

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