A MAN who lost his job running an off-licence in the financial crisis is launching a new wine and beer shop.

Mike Mazurek was manager of Unwins – which later became Wine Rack – in High Street, Benson, for seven years before the chain went into administration last October.

But instead of leaving the industry, the 59-year-old has decided to cash in his investments and open his own off-licence.

Benson Wines, which opens its doors next week, will also stock more than 80 bottled beers.

Mr Mazurek said: “I have done my research. I used the money from cashing in on my investments to help finance the shop, and I had a good business arrangement with the landlord.

“I could have gone somewhere like Spain and bought a nice little place but what would I have done with my time?

“It is a risk, as all new businesses are, but the response I have got from people living nearby has been fantastic. They keep asking when it will open.

“There is a demand for a wine and beer store in Benson and I’m sure it will be well supported.”

The opening comes a month after Benson News newsagents closed amid claims it too had been hit by the recession.

Mr Mazurek, who lives above the store, said he hoped the opening would “reinvigorate” the High Street.

He said: “I suppose it is good news that there is a shop opening instead of closing.

“There has been a lot of negativity about the shop closures in the village, which is a shame.

“It has been a tough time for everyone and when Wine Rack closed I think it definitely did leave a hole in the village.

“I have been through two administrations, first with Unwins and then with Wine Rack.”

In December, Benson Parish Council launched a campaign urging residents to support their local shops.

Chairman Bill Pattison said it was now up to the village to support the new store.

He said: “It is the old saying – use it or lose it. It is good for the High Street to have independent shops opening and local people need to support it.

“I think Mr Mazurek will be fine. He knows the village and industry inside out and we wish him every success with his business.”

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