PEOPLE'S fascination with everything old means customers are queuing up at a new Worcester business.

Mark and Jude Hubbard have set up a company called Oakleaf, which specialises in creating traditional interiors using inexpensive reproduction products that look exactly like the real thing.

"Consumers' increasing interest in restoring old properties and the growing popularity of 'heritage' homes is creating a huge demand for 'old' beams, panels, fireplaces and accessories," said Mr Hubbard.

"Many people are now choosing reproduction products as alternatives to those made from traditional and reclaimed products."

Visitors to the Ideal Home exhibition earlier this year were able to see Oakleaf's replica limed-oak beams, which were used throughout the 16th Century-style thatched cottage in the show village.

Mr Hubbard began his working life running a family roofing and building business with his father.

He and his wife, who also has an interest in interior design, were looking for a new direction and a business venture they could do together.

While visiting an exhibition in Birmingham last year, Mr Hubbard spotted the reproduction products and was so impressed he decided to start the business.

"Until I looked behind the panelling on the exhibition stand, I thought it was the real thing," he said.

"And I should know, our house is full of oak beams!"

For more information, visit the website www.oakleaf.co.uk