A FORMER champion high jumper has launched a new mobile phone store in Bolton.

Just opened at Crompton Place shopping centre is Bolton Mobile and Tablet — the third branch in a North West chain run by Syed Kazmi.

Syed, 35, was previously crowned champion high jumper in his region of Lahore in the Punjab province of Pakistan, but has now made a life in Britain, with two other mobile phone and tablet shops already established in Southport and Lancaster.

Syed says he’s delighted with the initial response from customers to Bolton Mobile and Tablet.

He said: “We carry out repair work and specialise in mobile phones and tablets. I buy and sell mobile phones of all makes, Apple, Samsung, all of them. And we repair and sell tablets.

“I set up my first shop two years ago and this is now my third. I’m really pleased with the way things are going. So far I have been very busy here in Bolton. I didn't know a great deal about the town before I opened.

“But I like the people and so far everything has been very positive. I hope to have my shop here in Bolton for many years to come.”

Paula Wood, centre manager at Crompton Place shopping centre in Bolton, said: “It’s great that we have been able to provide homes for growing independent businesses.

“I wish Syed all the best in his business venture.”