A FORMER hospital worker is embarking on a new career change after deciding to open a micropub in Darlington.

Ian Clough plans to open ORB – Ale and Whisky House on Coniscliffe Road by the end of the year.

The micropub will allow customers to sample different types of craft and real ale, before Mr Clough decides which ones he will stock full time.

He received the keys to the premises, which was previously a hairdressers, last month and hopes to create a unique place for drinkers in the town.

"I thought to myself I don't want to retire after working for the NHS until the end, so I decided to do something that I like," he said.

"I am fed up of having an average pint in Darlington - this will be about passion and quality and I am really confident it will be a success."