FORMER pizza restaurant Sophias in Cinderford is to become another Cobblers micro pub, adding to the two existing ones in Newent and Coleford.

The award winning pub micro-chain will add the Cinderford location to the roster in just a few weeks time, as owner Ian Jones makes the requisite changes to the decor and signage.

He told the Review last week: "I can confirm that I have a meeting with the landlord of the property, and will be picking up the keys later today. It is an exciting move, and one that I have been anticipating for some while now – ever since I heard that the old pizza place was closing down.

"There is quite a bit to do, as the decor will need refurbishment inside and out, plus I have to get the signs sorted. That is being done by local artist Lee who is based in the Forest and who did the fine work on the signs for the Coleford branch."

He added: "The Cinderford place will operate along the same lines as the other two, which means there will not be any music, no television, no gaming machines, no under 18s, and no lager.

"It's about generating a quiet but convivial atmosphere. When I opened the first one, I thought that there would definitely be a house motto along the lines of of 'We don't have wi-fi - we talk to each other!'"

The Cobblers chain specialises in real ales and ciders. Ian would like the new hostelry to open "as soon as possible" and hopes to be pulling the first pints at a grand opening towards the end of this month. Mayor of Cinderford, Max Coburn, has already said that he would like to officially help with the opening ceremony.

Sophias restaurant closed suddenly a few weeks ago, with the former owner causing local outrage by posting rude comments about the non customers to his diner, on social media.

Mr Jones is very keen to point out that the new venue has no connections 'whatsoever' with the former business.