Leisure entrepreneur Trevor Hemmings has bought the chain of Brannigans Bars in a joint venture with Bank of Scotland Corporate Banking for an undisclosed sum.

Brannigans, a company formed specifically for the acquisition, purchased the 15 operational sites from receivers after the chain, previously owned by Mustard Entertainment, was placed in administration in November 2002.

David Burns, director of leisure for the Hemming's family interests said the company would retain the Brannigans brand and planned to invest in improving the existing sites and opening new premises.

'It's our intention to retain and grow the Brannigans business on the back of its successful entertainment name and its regular loyal customer base.

'We will seek to enhance the eating, dancing and cavorting experience.'