LAW firm Ward Hadaway has helped a young entrepreneur fulfill a childhood dream to set up a live music venue.

Property and licensing experts at the firm’s Newcastle office advised Stuart Clark on the establishment of the Blue Bunny Cafe, in Newcastle city centre.

The cafe, which opened this month, offers a mix of breakfasts and comfort food to diners during the day, and a bar and live music during the evening, as well as exhibiting work by local artists.

Located in St Mary’s Place, between Newcastle and Northumbria universities, the Blue Bunny Cafe is aiming to be the venue of choice for the city’s large student population.

The venture has created four full-time jobs as well as a number of part-time posts.

Founder Stuart Clark, a Newcastle University graduate, said: “The location for the cafe is perfect and the idea is to have a nice relaxed environment for people to hang out in and enjoy some good music and good food.”

The cafe’s name is a tribute to a childhood toy.

“When I was little, my bear was called Blue Bunny and I used to draw pictures of what the Blue Bunny Cafe would look like.

“When I was older and wanted to go into business, my dad bought me the rights to the Blue Bunny Company name, so it seemed the right thing to call the cafe after that.”

Joanne Milne, of Ward Hadaway’s property team, advised Mr Clark on the leasehold of the Blue Bunny Cafe, while Cheryl Oliver advised on licensing issues, including the securing of the licence for live music at the cafe.

Ms Milne said: “It was a pleasure to help Stuart and his team and we wish them all the success with the venue.