Richard's back in charge when Birkenhead branch of TJ Hughes reopens (From Wirral Globe)

Richard's back in charge when Birkenhead branch of TJ Hughes reopens

10:47am Tuesday 23rd October 2012 in News

THE former manager of Birkenhead’s TJ Hughes store will take charge again when the store reopens this week.

Richard Hodgson will retake the reins at the Grange and Pyramids store which will create 60 new jobs when it opens its doors on Wednesday.

The Liverpool-based chain went into administration last year with the closure of 57 stores nationwide.

New owners, Lewis Home Retail Ltd, announced earlier this month that they would be reopening the store.

Richard, who has worked with the company for almost 25 years, said: "I locked it up and I want to be the one who unlocks the door again.

"I never thought that after one year I would be back and I’m very pleased.

"Unfortunately because it was not one of the stores originally purchased after administration I was made redundant.

"I had worked for TJ’s for the best part of 25 years and I think it was that which drew me back.

"While the re-fit is carried out the windows have been boarded up and people have been trying to peer inside to see what is coming.

"It's a weird feeling, I’ve been back a week or so but just putting on the suit again to take charge, feels right."

Derek Millar, commercial director for The Grange and Pyramids Shopping Centre, said: "The news from TJ Hughes just keeps getting better and better.

"Not only are we getting the store back, but we are also getting Richard back too.

"It's great for the centre and it is great for our customers too because Richard knows the business so well and why is it so popular among our shoppers.

"It is all part of the very positive developments going on at the Grange and Pyramids."