June 8, 2011 5.17 pm This story is over 152 months old

New store to cater for alternative scene

Community spirit: The alternative scene in Lincoln will get its own store, where anyone can bring in their clothing designs.

Karl Barkworth, owner of the store, with manager Kyler Ward

A new merchandise store called GrindHaus is set to open on Saturday, June 11, on St. Martins Street in Lincoln.

The independent store, which cost £15,000 to renovate, is aimed at selling clothes and accessories.

The store’s focus is on the community, with local graphic artists and designers being able to get their designs on the available merchandise.

Anyone can bring in their clothing designs or items they want to see on the shelves.

Karl Barkworth, owner of GrindHaus, said: “I don’t want this new store to be just a business, I want to see it help transform the alternative scene.

“Even though this is our first outlet, I would like to see us expand as quickly as possible. In the future I would like GrindHaus starting a number of events and projects to help the community thrive.

“With some young groups finding it hard to keep occupied, they just end up hanging around. We want our store to act as a base for those people and somewhere where they are supervised.”

There are three Roller Derby teams in Lincoln and the store has obtained exclusive rights to stock certain equipment for them. If you can prove that you are a Roller Derby participant, you get discounts off items in store.

Kyler Ward, manager, said: “I can see the roller derby gaining more popularity soon and our store will be here to facilitate that rise. It’s a great sport and has good support here in Lincoln.

“The store has been a big project and we could not have done it without the help of all the volunteers, most of who are incredibly eager to get the place open and running.”

There will be a champagne reception Friday before the opening for other local business people to meet and greet. The reception will run from 6pm – 8pm and feature fire-breathing.