A FORMER Liberal Democrat leader is set to open a new commercial unit at a Meon Valley beauty spot this summer.

Lord Paddy Ashdown will launch the Business Life Centre in Tichfield Lane, near Wickham, on June 4.

The facility, in converted barns on a former ostrich farm, already hosts a range of firms.

“Business Life Centre was borne out of a firm dislike of cold, hard, faceless managed offices and a strong urge to be in beautiful countryside,” a spokesman said.