THERE was an early, New Year boost on the job front for Tavistock, as a local independent builders' merchant has decided to open up a new branch in the town.

Tinhay Building Supplies, who already have established outlets at Lifton and Launceston, has chosen Pixon Lane in Tavistock to open their third branch.

The company said it is responding to customer feedback and is set to open in the town in early spring.

At present site work is underway and the build will begin shortly.

The expansion to three branches will also mean the creation of an additional four full-time jobs; including counter and telesales roles which will be advertised shortly. The new site will bring the total number of company employees from six in 1999 to 26.

Tinhay Building Supplies was formed by Robert Sorrell and Paul Davies in 1999 when they spotted an opportunity to open a site in Lifton. In 2007 they expanded by opening a branch in Launceston and now look forward to extending the company into Tavistock.

The town is a natural choice for the businessmen as they both live and work in the Tavistock area.

Robert Sorrell, director of Tinhay Building Supplies, said: 'We are delighted to be coming to Tavistock, as many local trades people and DIY enthusiasts currently use our branches in Lifton and Launceston.

'Tinhay Building Supplies combines the best practises of a national company with the friendly personal service and excellent product knowledge of a local company. We all live and work in the local area and feel very strongly about supporting local business whenever possible.

'Each of our branches has a slightly different product and service range but we make sure our customers can take advantage of what's on offer at all three, regardless of the branch they choose to visit.

'If we do not have something in stock at one site we will arrange for it to be there a few hours later.

'We anticipate that our new Tavistock branch will do a lot of business and we are looking forward to the opening.'