A businessman is planning to convert a 100ft boat into a floating shop and restaurant.

Dave Howe, who owns the maritime heritage shop Nauticalia on Hartlepool Marina, wants to move his store onto a tug moored in the marina.

If given planning permission by Hartlepool Borough Council, Mr Howe will spend around £60,000 converting the 43-year-old tug into a floating visitor attraction.

It's hoped the move will bolster the growing rejuvenation of Hartlepool tourism industry.

Mr Howe has already splashed out £30,000 on the Dutch-built vessel and is now converting its twin decks for retail and restaurant use.

He said: "My current shop is on the marina and I spend half my time looking out the window at the water.

"I just thought why not move my business onto the water. There is already a tremendous interest in maritime matters in the North-East, so why not take that interest onto a boat.

"The boat itself has led a very active life and was last used running supplies to an oil rig off the coast at Grimsby. "I plan to run the engine from time to time so shoppers and diners can get a sense of the vessel can do.

"I am sure it will contribute to the regeneration of Hartlepool. A lot of people who were at sea and now retired are interested in maritime paraphernalia. It's something that is becoming more and more popular."

Nauticalia currently sells maritime-based gifts and mementoes as well as replicas of ship parts including wheels and lamps.

Mr Howe's proposal follows plans by Hartlepool Council to develop the Old Headland Fish Quay to create a restaurant, bistro and shops.

The complex, which is also expected to include apartments, would be sold to the private sector once completed by the council.

There are also plans to run a national competition to find a brilliant chef who could run the restaurant and bistro for a rent-free period of up to five years.