UNKNOWN to most people for a generation, a new pub has actually opened it's doors in the Forest.

'Cobblers' is a new 'real ale' venture that opened in St John Street in Coleford, and is the second 'micro pub' to be opened in the area by entrepreneur Ian Jones, the first version of the micro pub has been successfully running in the former council offices in Newent since January this year.

The newly decorated premises, formerly a carpet shop, are luxurious, although the venue can only seat around 20 people.

In contrast to other pubs that concentrate on sports television, arcade games, gambling machines and juke boxes, Cobblers states in their advance publicity that: "We have no music. No television. No fruit machines. No children."

They add: "We only sell real ale, cider, wine and coffee."

As the Review was going to press, the final preparations for a grand opening on Tuesday afternoon were being completed – with the barrels of ale already in position and settling ready for local beer fans to sample.

Ian told the Review: "This has been a while coming, but we are finally ready for business. It's exciting, and I'm very pleased to have found the right location. The conversion from a shop to a pub has been straightforward – just a lot of decorating."

On the ethos of a technology-free pub, Ian sets out his idea: "We don't have wi-fi – we actually talk to each other!"

Tastefully furnished, and with featured artworks by Newent based artist Liz Morley, Cobblers will be open from 4pm to 9pm Tuesday to Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday.