POPULAR Japanese restaurant chain Wagamama has announced when its Bolton branch will open.

It has moved into the building occupied by Frankie and Benny's in Middlebrook Retail Park and is set to open on September 9.

All members of staff from Franky and Benny's were asked if they wished to transfer to Wagamama and more than half have taken up the offer.

The new restaurant will have 192 internal seats and a large outside dining area.

General manager of Wagamama in Bolton, Dean Farrow, said: "We can’t wait to open our doors to the great people of Bolton spreading our ethos of positivity from bowl to soul even further across Greater Manchester."

Wagamama, which is renowned for its katsu curry, has around 130 restaurants in the United Kingdom.

Regional Marketing Manager, Kate Dell added: “Wagamama has been so well loved for years now in the North West, and we’re excited to open a beautiful new restaurant in Bolton. We look forward to welcoming Wagamama fans and new guests alike with our nourishing Japanese inspired menu later in the summer.”

Joining the restaurant as a new arrival to Middlebrook is a Superdrug - complete with 'brow and lash bar'.

The store, which opens today, has created 17 new jobs and also includes a 'nail bar' where customers can get in-store beauty treatments without having to make an appointment.

Jess Sumner, Middlebrook Retail Park Store Manager, said: “We are delighted to be opening our new store to customers in Bolton.The store is a great addition to the retail park and will offer a wide selection of our unique mix of beauty, health and fragrances which is perfect timing with summer in full force.

"The addition of the Brow & Lash Bar and Nail Bar means we will be able to offer our customers a variety of top beauty treatments at affordable prices. We are sure our customers are going to love the new store."

Superdrug ist located between Sports Direct and Specsavers. The unit was previously occupied by Poundworld which fell into administration last summer resulting in the closure of all of its stores.