Braintree's newest nightspot is set to be run by a local man.

The new Chicago Rock Cafe, due to open its doors for the first time on October 17, will be managed by Tony Parker who lives just three miles away in Notley Garden Village.

The 38-year-old, who was born on the Isle of Man, said: "The fact that it is just three miles away may mean I can get more sleep than I have in the past as it will cut the time I am travelling by several hours a week."

The new venue, in the Freeport shopping centre, is not the first Mr Parker has managed.

He began his career in the leisure industry as a 14-year-old porter at a restaurant in Chester before setting up his own graphic design business.

He was then offered a managerial post at a restaurant in Chester and finally joined Luminar Leisure and the Chicago Rock Cafe in 1999.

Chicago Rock Cafe openings manager, Nick Applin said: "Tony is very experienced and will be a major asset to the Chicago Rock Cafe in Braintree."

Published Friday October 11, 2002

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