A NEW café aimed at comic book and gaming lovers has opened in Bury.

Geek Retreat is hoping to attract nerds from across the borough and further afield to enjoy their relaxed environment.

The business opened last week in an old hair salon in Bolton Street - currently as a takeaway due to coronavirus restrictions.

The comic and gaming café is run by brother and sister pair Thomas and Beth Stebbings in their first business venture.

Thomas said: "It is part of a franchise called Geek Retreat and they have been setting up a lot of stores recently, but we are the only one in the area.

"We actually started the process last year but lockdown delayed things quite a bit. It is just takeaway at the minute but we have everything ready for when we can open for people to sit-in."

The café features free-to-read comic books and board games, while retro video games consoles offer something for everyone.

The brother and sister duo hope that once they re-open for customers, they can run card tournaments for fans of popular games.

They include Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh! and Magic: The Gathering.

Geek Retreat revealed that it plans to open another 100 stores across the UK over the next two years.

While many sectors are feeling the coronavirus pinch, the move will create hundreds of jobs at the new franchises.

Thomas added that he plans to soon offer more food so that people can enjoy a substantial and full meal at their location.

Themed items are already on the menu and customers can enjoy milkshakes called Jaffa The Hutt, Martian Manhunter and Dr. Bad Boon.

Teas, coffees and hot chocolates are also on the menu for more reserved people.

Thomas said: "We want people to come in, enjoy a board game, have a milkshake or a coffee and just hang out with their friends.

"It's what it says on the tin. It is a place for all those who are geeky and nerdy to meet and share their interests."