The heating and plumbing merchant has launched the 2,000 sq.ft premises on Rosehill, Carlisle, which has initially created two new jobs.

It will be led by investor director, Jamie Heath, and branch manager, Christine Bell, who possess a combined 30 years’ experience within the heating and plumbing trade.

Mr Heath started his career as a management trainee at a national merchant and progressed to become a national project manager within the company, before joining Flame.

He said: “I’ve gained a lot of invaluable experience during my career and am excited by the opportunity of starting something from scratch with Flame, and to grow its reputation in Carlisle and the wider area.

“I have known Christine for many years and am delighted that she has chosen to come on board with this exciting opportunity. We’re now looking forward to establishing the brand here and, in the not to distant future, expand the operation with further job creation and an extension of the core services that Flame provides to its customers.”

Established in 2011, Flame is an award-winning company that operates 12 branches across the UK, including a bathroom showroom. It specialises in heating spares, commercial heating and plumbing, renewable energy and bathrooms, for both trade customers and the general public.

John Savage, managing director of Flame Heating Group, added: “This is another first for Flame, with this latest expansion into a new region. Both Jamie and Christine possess a wealth of industry experience, which will be crucial to the long-term success of Flame in the North West.

“We are hoping to extend our geographical reach into more regions across the UK, in line with our ambitious expansion strategy, and our Carlisle branch will play a large role in the company’s future.”