A LEIGH man’s childhood dream is about to become a reality as he gears up to start a new chapter with his “passion project”.

Paul Bender, 45, will be turning over a new page in his life as he gets set to open Cursed Earth Comics in London Road this Saturday.

It comes as the comic book fan decided to take the plunge to give fellow nerds a place to “come and enjoy the art of the books”.

He said: “I’m a comic book fan and have always been since I was a kid.

“Because I used to work in sales, I couldn’t think of a better way to put the two together. But it’s a bit of a risk due to me not operating a shop before.

“However, I can’t wait to get it open so people – and fellow fans – can come in and enjoy it.”

Echo: Owner - Paul Bender outside Cursed Earth ComicsOwner - Paul Bender outside Cursed Earth Comics (Image: Paul Bender)

As soon as guests step through the door to the new, modern space, they are instantly going to be immersed in the worlds of sci-fi, superheroes and fantasy.

From best-sellers, such as Marvel and DC, to lesser-known titles, including science fiction’s 2000AD, the 45-year-old’s store is set to cover all bases.

Echo: Inside - Cursed Earth ComicsInside - Cursed Earth Comics (Image: Paul Bender)

Mr Bender said: “The products in my store are going to be at an affordable price.

“Of course, we are pricing to sell it and some of the pieces in the shop will be collectors’ items that are valuable and very rare will be at a higher rate, but I am keen to keep costs below what they typically sell for around the country.

“There are also going to be items targeting younger children.

“At the end of the day, it’s comics that got me into reading, so my aim of selling at a reasonable price is to get others – young and old – to do the same.”

Previously working in Barbican, London, selling furniture, him and his wife Donna, 40, went travelling for a year, and it was during their trip where a “change of life” decision was made to launch the shop.

Cursed Earth Comics will be opening at 10am on Saturday and will close at 7pm.

General business hours are 11am to 7pm on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11am to 6pm on Wednesday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday.

For more information, check out their Facebook and Instagram pages.