Pictured: (l-r) Chris Uttley and his partner Mark Wilson of Le Sac shake hands with Banks Long & Co surveyor Matthew Brooks

Entrepreneur Mark Wilson's dream is hopefully "in the bag" after the High Street storeworker decided to splash out and open his own shop.

Mark has fulfilled a long-held ambition to run his own business, with the launch of Le Sac in Sincil Street, which sells handbags, luggage and accessories. 

But he is easing himself into business, whilst continuing to work for Marks & Spencer until his new venture gets fully established - under the watchful eye of his partner Chris Uttley. 

Meanwhile, commercial agent Banks Long & Co - which let the shop on behalf of its client Lincolnshire Co-operative - said the premises are in a great position to catch passing trade. 

And the agent has also let another Lincolnshire Co-operative unit in the area, 7 Waterside - to EYS, Education & Youth Services Ltd. 

Mark said: "I have worked for Marks & Spencer for nearly 10 years.  I am currently employed in its food hall in Lincoln, but before that I was Food Hall manager at the company's former Skegness store. 

"Marks has been brilliant in giving me time off to get my new shop sorted out and it is fantastic to have finally welcomed my first customers after wanting to have my own business for such a long time. 

"I chose to open in Sincil Street because it means my shop will attract the attention of commuters and shoppers walking past on their way to and from the St Mary's Street railway station, the city's bus station and the markets area. 

"I'm already pleased with my decision because this move has created a job for my partner Chris, the shop is attracting attention and we are looking to boost our ranges, with the addition of further accessories, such as jewellery," added Mark. 

Banks Long & Co surveyor Matthew Brooks said: "This area is currently under the spotlight as part of major investment  plans by Lincolnshire Co-operative to regenerate the area to create the multi-faceted Lindongate project. 

"This means that shop units in Sincil Street currently offer businesses fantastic flexibility, which is an important factor, particularly for new enterprises and for people who want a cost-effective way of trialling a retail venture. 

"This deal means that the occupier will definitely be able to stay in their premises until January 31, 2013, after which there will be regular "get out" points, which can be used by the occupier or Lincolnshire Co-operative - provided six months notice is given."

Mr Brooks added that EYS (Education & Youth Services Ltd) has taken a unit in Waterside South, after securing a new contract with the City of Lincoln Council to provide education services. 

The business is now starting to fit out the premises, which are opposite The Witch & Wardrobe pub.