A SHOP selling military gear, popularised by the likes of Cheryl Cole, has extended its operations by opening a second store in Newcastle’s city centre.

Army and Navy stores, which has been trading in Newcastle since 1974 and is based on Pilgrim Street, has opened Kommand Outdoors, in Bigg Market.

The second-generation family business, which employs five people, has moved into a 3,500 ft property formerly occupied by Freemans.

The expansion provides Army and Navy Stores with a modern building, extra space for stock storage as well as the opportunity to grow.

The company’s products, which range from military gear to work wear, outdoor accessories and urban clothing, continue to remain popular with traditional customers as well as a new generation of younger customers and women.

Karninder Sadhra, from Army and Navy Stores, said: “We have a loyal and growing customer base and it’s great to be opening a second shop in Newcastle after trading for nearly 40 years.

“Retailers are increasingly under pressure from the internet but we find people value our personal approach and enjoy coming into the shop.”

“We have such a diverse customer base from the military, to those working outdoors and even those looking for fancy dress. It’s also noticeable the number of young customers, particularly girls, we get coming into the shop to look for military jackets and other urban clothes popularised by the likes of Cheryl Cole.”

The business has been advised on the expansion by law firm Gordon Brown with funding supplied by Barclays.

Gordon Brown’s Martin Donnelly said: “Army and Navy stores is a great family business with a unique product range and a loyal and growing customer base.

“They’ve been in Newcastle for years and it’s great to see and support this exciting development which should pave the way for many more exciting years in the city.”