Lakeland, the kitchen and homeware chain, is gearing up to open a new store in Llanelli, near Swansea. 

Lakeland director Julian Rayner has revealed that the firm's intention was to open in the autumn at Parc Trostre, Llanelli, although a lease for the unit is yet to be secured.

Mr Rayner explained: "Parc Trostre was an attractive park. It was a regional centre." Rayner also revealed that a store in Swansea is also a possible option.He said: "We have got Swansea on our list. It is somewhere we would consider in the future."

Lakeland, which describes itself as a highly successful and growing family- owned business, has 48 stores around the country. The opening of a new store would be welcome in Llanelli, bringing more jobs to the area.

Andrew Stephens, president of the Llanelli chamber of trade and commerce, welcomed the news, but urged people to take a look at the town centre also.He said: "We need to encourage the people who go to Trostre to see what Llanelli has got to offer."