Europe's largest shoe retailer is coming to Gloucester with a new store set to open creating 15 jobs.

Deichmann shoes will open in the King's Walk, Gloucester shopping centre later this year, taking over the former HMV Store.

The footwear giant has already recruited a store manager and will soon be advertising for 15 other members of staff.

Peter White, centre manager for King's Walk Gloucester said Deichmann coming to Gloucester was brilliant news for the city.

He said: "It's great news for King's Walk that a premium brand is coming to the centre. It highlights the future of the centre is looking bright, with many more store openings planned in the future.

Leader of Gloucester City Council, Councillor Paul James added: "Deichmann is a huge, international brand and one that fits with our ambitions to create a fantastic vibrant city in which to shop, eat, work and visit.

"We look forward to welcoming them to Kings Walk as another great addition to our shopping experience."

Work will begin to fit out the 4,800 square foot store later this month with the opening date pencilled in for the Autumn.

A representative for Deichmann, who have 3,700 stores across the globe said: "We're really excited to be opening our first in Gloucester.

"Kings Walk will provide us with an excellent store and with the development plans in place for a renewed retail opportunity, we look forward to enhancing our presence in the South West."

Deichmann is known for its fast track shopping concept, with all shoes and sizes instantly available on the shop floor so customers don't have to wait for assistance and can try on the style of their choice.

It is one of a number of new retailers expected to take space alongside existing stores in Kings Walk, which is undergoing transformation by owners Reef Group in partnership with Gloucester City Council.

Planned improvements include new and remodelled shop fronts, refurbished car park, addition of public toilets and upgrading of Eastgate Street.

The plans for Kings Walk complement the wider Kings Quarter scheme, which will see the area transformed with improvements to Kings Square, Gloucester Station and construction of the new Transport Hub.