The opening date for a traditional pub being transformed into a new 'red carpet-style' bar has been confirmed.

The once-thriving Waggon and Horses on Royal Wootton Bassett's High Street has been left empty since it quietly closed to the public last year.

But now the Cobb Family - made up of Paul, Sara, their son Charlie and Nanny Cobb - are preparing to reopen the pub as a 'speak-easy' style bar offering a classy night out for all.

With work underway to get the Grade II listed pub up and running, Paul Cobb took the Swindon Advertiser for a look behind the scenes.

The signs are ready to go up, as Cobbstar prepares to openThe signs are ready to go up, as Cobbstar prepares to open (Image: Newsquest) 'Cobbstar' will open to the public on November 29 and will feature black, red and gold decor themed in an old Hollywood, red-carpet style.

According to Paul, the bar will offer a place for locals wanting to get dressed up for a night on the town that feels special.

“We’re here for people who want a great classy night out, some cocktails or food, good music and the chance to get a bit dressed up," said Paul.

“We do have a dress code, but it’s not there to put people off. We just say no workwear, tracksuit bottoms or baseball caps.

“So if you want to try on your three-piece suit you’re very welcome to, but equally if you want to just put on a smart top and jeans that’s fine too.

“Ultimately, we want to be like the most classy speak-easy bar in town that's as inclusive and welcoming to people as possible."

The Cobb Family are no strangers to hospitality, having previously run a bar in Guildford which closed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

While the family acknowledge that the new bar won't be everyone's cup of tea, they're keen to continue celebrating as much of the Waggon and Horses heritage as possible.

"We’re working hand in hand with the council who want to ensure that we respect the old building and we couldn’t agree more," added Paul.

“Some parts of this building are 350 years old and we don’t plan on knocking that down.

"If anything we are trying to expose and display those historical features like the old beams even more."

The High Street bar will open in November from Thursdays to Sundays and Paul, Charlie and Nanny Cobb can't wait to welcome the town in.

While Paul's partner Sara will be there to support her family, the Cobbs have made it clear that she is not a part of running the establishment due to her duties as a police officer.