A LONG-established plumbers merchants is looking to tap into a new market when it opens a flagship branch in Blackburn.

James Hargreaves (Plumbers Merchants) Ltd will throw open the doors on a brand new £750,000 unit in Whalley New Road at Larkhill in early spring.

But the company -- based in Burnley and ranked as the largest independent plumbers merchants in the North West with some 11 branches -- is no stranger to the area and has long-time links with Blackburn.

"James Hargreaves was incorporated way back in 1923 and has traded out of Blackburn for nearly 80 years," said managing director Gordon Rothwell.

"Our existing premises in Leamington Road will close when the state-of-the-art new 14,000sq ft unit opens in March.

"We have evaluated our position, recognised the potential in Blackburn and decided to upgrade on a grand scale.

"We spent several months looking around and believe we have found a site which suits our purpose to perfection. It will raise our profile and give us significantly more trading space in a well-known and easily accessible location."

The firm will use around half the new building with the company also incorporating two complimentary business on the site.

"The aim is to create a one-stop shop for all plumbing and associated needs and we already have one unit spoken for," said Mr Rothwell. "Our section will give customers a wider choice than ever -- from a tap washer to a full central heating system and from a toilet roll holder to a full bathroom suite. Additionally we are featuring a showroom focusing on exclusive gas fires and surrounds."