ONE of Blackpool's best known bars looks set for a bright future after its parent company was taken over by millionaire businessman, Trevor Hemmings.

Brannigans, which owns 15 establishments across the country, has been in administrative receivership since last November, after bosses revealed the firm could not pay its debts.

Now, a new company, lead by the Hemmings family interests, which also owns Leisure Parcs, has taken over the bars, including the Market Street branch.

Ironically, the bars had originally been sold off to previous owners, Mustard Entertainment Ltd, when Mr Hemmings bought out the old First Leisure Group.

David Burns, director of leisure for the Hemmings' family interests, said: "It is our intention to retain and grow the Brannigans business on the back of its successful entertainment name and its regular and loyal customer base.

"We will seek to enhance the eating, dancing and cavorting experience. This acquisition complements our existing portfolio of leisure businesses and provides exciting career opportunities for employees across all our companies."

Mr Hemmings will own 85 per cent of the new company, with the Royal Bank of Scotland taking a 15 per cent stake.

No details of the price have been revealed.