The organisers behind 'Level Up' gaming events have brought a new shop to Barrow.

South Lakes Game Exchange, which specialises in retro gaming, opened on Cavendish Street on Friday (November 8) .

The business is owned by Scott Geldart, 32, and Jayde Hartley, 30 from Barrow.

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As well as buying and selling games consoles and tech, the shop has a huge range of toys and collectibles as well as retro arcade machines such as Street Fighter and Ms. Pac-Man.

The pair have also incorporated the community and competitive spirit from their events into the bricks-and-mortar shop with tournaments and gaming competitions.

The extensive collection of Playstation and X Box games (Image: South Lakes Games Exchange) Scott said: "I've always wanted to work for myself and grow a successful business. Now seemed like the right time with everything that's going on in the town.

"I've started many businesses over the years but I've always had a passion for gaming so it was a no-brainer to start a store as the stock was taking over my house and unit.

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"We stock a range of consoles and games for everyone from old Nintendo and Sega through to modern consoles such as PS5 and Xbox. Our stock is constantly changing so every week we'll have new games, consoles and toys for people to browse.

"We are also working with another local business, Coopers Collectables', who provides vintage toys in the store for anyone into collectables."

One of the retro arcade machines - Ms. Pac-Man (Image: South Lakes Games Exchange) Level Up gaming's first event took place in August of last year and has grown from strength to strength with its Summer Games Fest and collaborating with local organisations such as men's mental health charity Andy's Man Club.

Both of Scott's ventures share the ethos of empowering the community through inclusive gaming while fostering connections and celebrating a shared passion for play at every skill level.

 "We've realised there was a huge want and need for something gaming-themed in the town," Scott added.

"And we've had so much positive feedback about starting something different and bringing the gaming community together in a space where everyone is welcome. 

"We plan on running weekly game nights soon, ranging from retro to modern with competitions and prizes to be won."