TWENTY jobs in Blackburn have been saved, thanks to the takeover of the ScottishPower store in Whitebirk Drive.

Powerhouse retail Ltd have bought the premises as part of a deal to snap up 99 shops across the country.

Powerhouse Chief Executive Derrick Broomfield said: "This store at Blackburn is among those we have been able to cherry pick to best match our needs and fill the geographical gaps in our business.

"They have strong trading records and we expect great things from them in the future.

"We're keen to integrate the staff as quickly as possible into our already successful business.

"The first step will be to invest in staff training and the development of both IT systems and the warehouse and distribution infrastructure."

Powerhouse now has around 230 superstores and high street shops across the UK.

The buyout follows ScottishPower's decision to move out of the retail sector to concentrate on providing energy.