Nic’s new string

AN ENTERPRISING designer from Huntingdon is set to take the music world by storm with the launch of his own innovative and distinctive guitar.

Nic Mounteney, 43, will be showcasing his musical masterpiece at the Music Live show at Birmingham's NEC from November 3 to 5.

Nic, who set up his own company, Black Carbon Limited, 15 years ago with his wife Lynn, 45, designed the 'Series1' guitar in just nine months, from their home-based office in Owl Way, Hartford.

Mr Mounteney, who has worked in product development for more than 15 years, said: "This is probably the most distinctive and innovative new guitar to hit the music scene for a long time and we are really excited about it. We have had serious interest from leading guitar magazines who are going to visit our stand at the show in Birmingham.

"We are also proud that Black Carbon Limited is a Huntingdon-based company and many of the components used to make the guitar are supplied from companies in Huntingdonshire."

The most innovative thing about the £2,000 'Series1' guitar, he said, is the Black Carbon tuning system, he also designed.

He added: "Our system ensures that a string can be fitted and tuned in less than 30 seconds. It is fitted as standard to our guitars but can be purchased separately and fitted to most other guitars. The system is unique to our company and we have applied for a patent."

Only two of the guitars have currently been produced, one left-handed concept version and a right-handed pre-production version, and both will be played at the show by St Peter's School pupil Joel Mason, who is a keen guitarist.

Joel, 15, lead guitarist in Huntingdon-based band, I'm Taken From Everyday, said: "Nic's guitars match my guitars for sound and the way they are designed but the distinctive body and neck shape of Nic's make them easier to handle and play."

INFORMATION: Black Carbon is on www.blackcarbon.co.uk