THE owner of a new music shop in Greenock is hoping his venture will strike a chord with local music lovers.

James Haggart says he has fulfilled a lifelong dream by opening a shop in his home town, which he hopes to expand if it proves a hit with locals.

The 27-year-old is selling a variety of records, instruments and musical accessories at his new shop, Reverence Music, which is located within the former M&S unit in the Oak Mall.

James told the Tele that he had received an 'incredible' response when he announced his plan to open the shop.

He said: "The response has been amazing, I thought people would be into it but not to this degree.

"People seem to be really into every aspect of it which is really exciting.

"I've worked in this area for a number of years now, selling records and running round the country doing music fairs.

"I'm really excited to make a home base and try and combine the records side of things with the musical instruments as well.

"I think the area's been lacking something like this for a while."

While James has spent years buying and selling records, the shop is his first foray into running a business.

He says that Joe Baldi, the former owner of AdLib on Roxburgh Street, has given him guidance on setting the store up.

He added: "Working out all the admin and business side of things has all been brand new to me.

"I know my stuff on the product side of things but setting up a company and running a business has been a new experience.

"I've done trading and fairs for quite a while.

"I want the shop to have something for people who want to listen and for people who want to play.

"We want to grow it and take feedback too so we can stock the things they want and need.

"In the future I'd love to expand the space and have somewhere that tuition could be run out of.

"We're also hoping to take part in Record Store Day when it next comes around.

"We strive to accommodate all tastes in music, and as time goes on we'll be adding more and more stock to try and cater for everyone."