A POPULAR music shop that burned down in a suspected arson attack could re-open within a week at a new location.

Musical instruments worth £100,000 were destroyed in a fire at the Music Box shop, Abbey Street, Accrington.

It is believed the blaze started in the ground floor lobby of a neighbouring property in Water Street.

In the blaze that followed, Music Box's roof was ruined and there was massive fire damage to the shop itself.

But now, less than three weeks later, bosses have found temporary premises in nearby Peel Street.

Brian Grooby, 66, a part owner of the shop, said he still hoped to return to the original Music Box store, which is where he has run the business for the last 25 years.

It is expected that it will cost £350,000 to repair the damage and replace the lost stock, but he is determined to open temporarily until the insurance money comes through.

Mr Grooby said: "We have the cash in place to re-stock now and we've found a new shop so we hope to open up next week.

"There are a few things to sort out with the solicitors but we want to get on with things and stay open.

"I've received hundreds of cards and messages from well-wishers and it has really made me determined to keep going with the shop."

As well as the damage to the shop there was also serious damage caused to two nearby properties in Water Street.

Fire investigators have said that the blaze was started deliberately. No one has been arrested yet in connection with the fire.

Sniffer dogs did not detect any accelerants at the scene.