AN ICONIC former nightclub is set to open as a 'community hub' by a man who wants to retain some of his hometown's character.

David Booth will open Hot Spot Lounge and Charisma Club on May 22 as a coffee lounge and bar area with nightclub, holding different nights throughout the week designed to cater for anyone and everyone.

He said: "I've taken over this club with the purpose of putting some life back into the town.

"I want students to be able to come and do their revision, people to come and meet their friends before they go shopping and then as we get to 6pm and people are finishing work, they can come in for a drink or a bite to eat."

David, 57, of Honeywell, plans to hold an under 18s disco on Mondays and Thursdays, alternative night on Tuesdays and student night on Wednesdays.

** The full story appears in the Barnsley Chronicle newspaper, dated May 15. **