Hitchen is the third location in Hertfordshire for the independent timber and builders merchant, and was opened to support the construction of 16,000 new homes in the county over the next seven years.

“The Hitchin branch has received very positive feedback from the community. The opening of this branch has offered some healthy competition and variety to tradesmen in Hitchin,” said branch manager Gwen Berguis.

“Sales are increasing week by week and we are looking at a successful end to the year.”

The group now has 26 sites, including Sawbridgeworth and Royston in Hertfordshire.