By Pam McClounie

Last updated at 15:37, Friday, 05 October 2012

A university graduate is opening a new bar in Carlisle.

Sam Norman

The Shabby Scholar will be located in Carlyle Court in units formerly occupied by the Bijou restaurant and the Beau Boutique.

The new venture is the idea of Sam Norman and his dad Stephen, a former Royal Mail worker and wagon driver.

Sam, 25, said: “We are taking on the two units and we just need to put a hole through the wall and a step down. It’s cosmetic work really. I worked in a cool tapas bar in Cornwall where I went to university and I always dreamt of doing something similar here in Carlisle.”

The Shabby Scholar takes its name from its close proximity to the University of Cumbria and the fact that its decor will be “shabby chic”.

Sam, of Scotland Road, Stanwix, said: “We wanted a name that is in keeping with the historic side of the area.”

The bar will serve rustic lunches and modern-style tapas. Sam said: “We want to use local produce and sell small portions of tapas that people can enjoy.

“I think Carlyle Court is a really good location because there is a lot happening at that end of the city.

“I think the little courtyard is a unique selling point. We’re close to the student residences and near The Lane bar and the Brickyard.

“We will also be close to the Central Methodist Church if plans to open it as a theatre and live venue come off.”

Sam will work at the bar full-time and aims to employ three kitchen staff and about four others. He expects the bar to open sometime later this month.

First published at 13:56, Friday, 05 October 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk