A new bar and music venue is set to open.

A weekend of live music will kick-start the launch of The Yellow Earl on Lowther Street, in Whitehaven.

The venture is the brainchild of businessman and events promoter Danny Maudling.

He is working his wife Leah and business partner Liz Cannon to open the new venue on Friday, which was formerly the Caspian restaurant.

He said: "I have always loved this building. I knew it had become empty last year.

"Liz has been working for me at Mighty Boof (Promotions). She asked me if I wanted a business partner.

"It's what we have been doing for a lot of years but it's also a bit different. I think there has been a gap in the market for it in the town."

He said he has been inspired by his past ventures, and also looking at venues in Carlisle, to take on this business.

"We have got so much to offer than what we have been able to provide in the past," he said.

This weekend, the venue will be open Friday to Sunday.

A live band is set to play on the opening night, Jolan is due to perform on Saturday and Eden Dunn is set to play on Sunday.

After this weekend, the bar will be open Thursday to Sundays.

Mr Maudling said once the food menu starts in October, the venue will be open seven days a week.

He said they have taken on 12 people so far, and aim to take on more in October.

The quirky name of the venue harks back to the town's history as it has been named after Hugh Cecil Lowther, the fifth Earl of Lonsdale, who was known as the "yellow Earl" because of his love of the colour.

"He was quite a character", said Mr Maudling, who said the historical figure was known for his extravagant lifestyle and love of yellow possessions.