THE former boss of a fashion chain which operates in East Lancashire is eyeing a new challenge.

Jim Hodkinson, the former head of New Look, is eyeing up Sainsbury's DIY chain Homebase. Mr Hodkinson, who left the top job at New Look in May after a dispute over his conduct at an industry party, had previously worked at Kingfisher's B&Q where he has been credited with building up the market leading business.

It has emerged that he is working with venture capital group Charterhouse Development Capital at taking "a look" at Homebase.