TWENTY-one year-old David Johnson claims to be the youngest pub licensee in Hyndburn.

And although David is young in years he has vast experience which he hopes will stand him in good stead as he takes over the running of the Peel Park pub in Turkey Street, Accrington.

David has lived in pubs all his life and is the third generation of his family to have gone into the trade.

His mother and father, Susan and David, who have run the Grey Horse in Whalley Road, Accrington, have supported David in his career choice.

David said: "It is really exciting. I want the pub to be a family pub, traditional with food."

David went to Peel Park Primary School, very near the pub, and St Christopher's High in Accrington.

After leaving school he studied business and finance at Accrington and Rossendale College and was a trainee manager for Thwaites in the T-bar in Lord Square, Blackburn for three years.

A spokesman for Hyndburn Borough Council said they were unable to confirm whether David was the youngest licensee. Liquor licences are available to 18-year-olds and over.