A former aircraft hangar in Warboys is set to start a new life as a tackle superstore for a national angling retailer.

The Hunts Post: The unit in Warboys before renovation.The unit in Warboys before renovation. (Image: Archant)

Opening on August 26, the new Fishing Republic store, located on the former Warboys airfield, has created six jobs, and is expected to be open seven days a week.

The overhaul of the hangar took about eight months to complete but almost came to a disastrous halt when part of the building collapsed in the freak gusts caused by Storm Doris, back in February.

Area manager Steve Calder said: “When we took on the lease, in January of this year, we knew we would have much to do: for starters, there was no drainage and no mains electricity. But we love a challenge, and were confidently looking forward to a June opening. Then came Storm Doris.

“When one of the walls was blown down, we were compelled not just to rebuild the affected area, but to reinforce the entire building, as well as the walls of the adjoining units.

“Inevitably, this put our plans back a couple of months. But it had to be done: though we were advised that the collapse was caused by an unprecedented confluence of wind and other factors - meaning there was probably a one-in-a-million chance of a recurrence - we were not willing to take any chances.”

Since the work was carried out, there have been no further setbacks for the team, and Mr Calder and his staff say they are looking forward to opening.

He said: “When the unit became available, we didn’t hesitate; Warboys is at the heart of some of the finest river and lake angling in the country.

“It’s handy for main roads, including the A14 and A1, and just as importantly, it’s a big unit: more than 7,000 square feet which allows us plenty of room to store and display an enormous range of tackle, bait, clothing and accessories - catering to the needs of carp, match, game anglers and general pleasure fishers alike.”

As with previous Fishing Republic openings, the launch of the Warboys store will be marked with a fishing tackle sale, featuring poles at trade prices, rods and discounts on reels, bivvies, and shelters.