MIGHTY Muse frontman Matthew Bellamy now owns Ashburton-based guitar maker Manson Guitar Works.

The guitarist and songwriter of Teignmouth’s internationally famous band bought the majority shareholding of the company last week.

Bellamy has played Manson guitars on stage and in the studio almost exclusively for 20 years.

The company recently moved to Ashburton to expand. It still has Manson’s Guitar Shop on Exeter’s Fore Street.

Adrian Ashton is staying as CEO for Manson Guitar Works at Ashburton.

He said: ‘Matthew has been a customer of the shop for more than 20 years, since they were all teenagers. We looked after them when they were starting out and it’s paid off.

‘This is an exciting development which will build on the great relationship we’ve developed with Matthew over two decades.’

Manson Guitar Works has an international reputation for producing mainstream and highly innovative instruments used by respected musicians globally.

Bellamy said: ‘I’m excited to be taking ownership of Manson Guitar Works and developing its potential in the future. Having played Manson Guitars since I was able to co-design my first custom guitar I have the best insight into the products.’

The company’s recent move to industrial premises in Ashburton has already seen an increase in production and new models launched.

This latest development will put the company at the forefront of guitar technology and creativity.

Company namesake, Hugh Manson, aged 65, will remain a consultant to the company to allow for semi-retirement.