A LANCASHIRE man has come up with a novel new business idea by looking to the past for inspiration.

Mark Andrews, 29, a former student of Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Blackburn, has combined his love of vintage with his background working in events to create a pop-up Victorian-style Apothecary Bar, which he hopes will soon be appearing all over Lancashire.

The bar and the products it serves have been styled around a Victorian Wild West apothecary theme, from staff uniforms, props and decor to the actual ingredients, spirits and cocktails.

Mark set up the business through the Prince’s Trust.

Mark, who lives in Mellor, said: “I was in London working in events for a while, and I have an interest in vintage.

“I just thought it would be a bit more exciting than your average bar for hire that you have at events. We put on a bit of a show.

“Back in the day an apothecary would create an elixir or ‘cure-all’ for customers after listening to their specific problems or worries. We've adapted that idea and made it purely pleasure based.”

Mark has already started taking bookings for the bar, which is aimed at the wedding, events and festival market.

He said: “It’s starting to take off.”

For details, visit: www.facebook.com/theapothecarybar