Starting a business importing antiques from the far-flung corners of China was a labour of love for Darrell Walsh.

The Lewes-based furniture maker had been planning the venture for more than two years and opened for business last week.

He said: "Fortunately, I was able to rely on help from friends in Shanghai to get things started at the other end.

"I went out to China to find out about procedures and customs and meet some of the people the business will be dealing with.

"There has been a fairly steep learning curve for me to get the business up and running.

Not just learning about how to run a business but also finding out about China in the Qing and Ming dynasties.

"I have to pay suppliers in dollars so I need to keep an eye on the US and the Chinese economies as well as the British economy.

It's surprising what you need to know when you run your own business."

Mr Walsh has been interested in China and its history for a long time and studied furniture making at the London College of Furniture, where he gained a City and Guilds qualification.

He said: "I have been working hard and saving hard to have my own business and now I feel very lucky to be able to combine furniture and China, two of my favourite subjects, into my business."

The Qing Dynasty covered the years 1644 to 1911 and its styles influenced fashion and tastes in the UK.

One of the most famous examples is the interior of Brighton Pavilion.

Mr Walsh said: "China is becoming much more open to businesses now.

Just 15 years ago, there would have been no chance of setting up a business like this.

"The antiques come from various provinces in China and are chosen for their distinctive style and craftsmanship.

"All the pieces are painstakingly restored by a family business in Zhejiang province.

They are officially authenticated and are affordably priced."

Mr Walsh's business, Red Wood Furniture, is based in the newly opened Lewes Market, in Station Road.