LANDLORD Richard Lacey is hoping residents will return to his country pub now strict drinking rules have been relaxed.

Mr Lacey, of Winsley pub The Seven Stars, hopes villagers will come flooding back in the knowledge they can once again drop in and enjoy a pint.

Previous owners Mike and Helen Dowler caused a storm when they decided to bar punters who only wanted to order drinks, saying people could only stay if they ordered a meal.

The decision angered many residents who snubbed the pub for others in the village.

The restaurant-type business has now been reverted back to a pub, and has already seen local drinkers return.

Mr Lacey said: "There is space for them both. Locals did stop supporting the pub but it was how the previous owners wanted it.

"They chose to do it because it suited their family life I cannot be critical of that."

Since Mr Lacey took over at the pub on June 30, the building has been re-decorated, hanging baskets have been put up and new staff have been brought in.

At the time of going to press, Mr and Mrs Dowler were unavailable for comment.