It is not everyday that you come across a comprehensive Koi, tropical fish and aquatic equipment shop ­— but that is exactly what Complete Koi and Aquatics have to offer.

Koi Carp enthusiasts Charlie Ingham (director), 29, and Les Goodwin (technical director), 52, run the shop in Tonge Bridge Way, off Bury Road.

They opened the centre in November 2019, with an aim to “breathe fresh air into the aquatics industry with a professional, ethical approach which would benefit consumers”.

Mr Ingham, from Bolton, is new to the industry, while passionate about Koi Carp and aquatics, whereas Mr Goodwin, from Bury, has more than 37 years experience and is considered an expert in the field in the North West.

Mr Ingham’s interest in Koi Carp and aquatics started well before opening his first shop late last year.

He studied zoology at the University of Hull between 2009 and 2012, but found himself away from the industry for seven years.

Between university and opening the shop Mr Ingham worked in a variety of sales jobs as well as other sectors such as luxury lighting for homes and businesses.

He said: “I studied zoology at Hull University but then ended up into the world of sales.

“To be honest I pretty much lost my way with jobs after leaving university.”

He told The Bolton News that his main passion had always been zoology, specifically Koi Carp.

As soon as Mr Ingham decided he wanted to set up his shop, he got in touch with Mr Goodwin, who he describes as “extremely knowledgeable”.

He said: “Les has worked in the industry since before I was born, he truly is an expert in his field.

“I actually wanted a job with him when I was 16 but life got in the way.

“Fast forward 12 years and after being a frequent customer of his, we talked about setting up our own shop and everyone thought it was a great idea so we went with it.”

The shop was started “completely from scratch, we designed everything ourselves”.

Mr Ingham also drew inspiration from his father, who kept Koi Carp himself, and has invested in the shop.

Their fish is sourced from all over the world, such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Thailand, with the Koi from Israel.

Mr Ingham commented on business so far: “The fish community has been very receptive of our new shop, a lot of people who come in immediately recognise Les as an expert.

“The reception from the general public has been great, people are coming in really interested about our fish, with some buying their first from us.”

For more information, visit the Facebook page or go to completekoi.com.