Footballer Mark Bower is planning for the days after he hangs up his boots with a new business venture in Shipley.

The former Bradford City centre-half, who now plays for Darlington, has launched an estate agency in Otley Road with business partner James Hamilton, who is experienced in property sales and lettings.

Mark said: “ My football career is still going strong but I am planning ahead for when I hang up my boots. I’ll be spending as much time as I can learning the ropes from James and building up my knowledge and experience in property.

“I have dabbled before in a number of buy-to-let properties which generated my interest in the market and gave me the idea of training to become an estate agent.”

Mark said Hamilton Bower aimed to provide a fresh approach to the property market with a focus on Shipley and the surrounding areas.

It deals with all types of property from studio apartments to large detached houses.