A MOTORBIKE mechanic has enlisted the help of a local artist to help him rev up business interest after moving to new premises.

A huge 15-ft gloss painting of a racing bike in action will adorn the doors of Mick Morant's Motorcycle Workshop on Carlisle Street, Blackburn.

The artwork has been designed and painted by Blackburn-born artist Mark "Grego" Gregory, whose previous designs hav been seen in nightclubs and flats.

Mick said: "I wanted a striking image so that people would know where we have moved to and when Grego came up with the design I knew it would work.

"My old workshop was on the Roe Lee Industrial Estate and customers sometimes struggled finding me.

"With this image on the door I don't think we will have that problem in our new place.

"Grego is an immensely talented lad and has done a tremendous job. The door has already grabbed the attention of plenty of passers-by."

It is all the more remarkable because Grego, who has travelled Europe as a roadie with various rock bands, only took up painting as therapy after being born with cerebral palsy.

He said: "I found it was something I could do quite naturally and really enjoy it.

"When Mick got in touch I was really pleased to be asked to do something in Blackburn because it is my home town. I was born just up the road from the workshop.

"I have done similar projects in bars and nightclubs but nothing quite on this scale.

"Even when I was working on the painting people were stopping their cars to take a look so I am pleased that it has created a reaction, which is all you can hope for."

Mick's new workshop opened its doors to customers today.