THE Glasshouse pub tucked up against the flanks of landmark May Hill has grown a new bar – and most of the materials are not only sourced locally but have a history of their own.

The 500-year-old inn also bucks the national trend of escalating pub closures under the careful management of popular hosts Steve and Jill Pugh.

"The builders have done a first class job. I think they really enjoyed working with local materials on something that was out of the ordinary but completely in keeping. It is a tribute to local craftsmen," said Steve Pugh.

"It gives our customers a little more room, whereas they were sometimes elbow-to-elbow in the old bar. We have also added a new kitchen, but will keep our small menu of traditional food using quality local supplies – beef, and fish from a local supplier."

He said he would also adhere to the pub's tradition of having no jukebox – Morris dancers were the nearest they came to pop music!

The extension was completed by Forest building firm K.W. Bell under project manager Gordon Gambling, and was opened by "regular" and friend veteran golfer Brian Huggett of Weston-under-Penyard.

As well as local facing stone the heavy flags for the floor came from Guy Roberts, while the 500-year-old oak beams and a salvaged old cherrywood bar were also supplied locally.

The Glasshouse has been a favourite watering hole throughout its history, modern times being no exception with rock stars and actors numbered among its visitors.

But Steve and Jill are most happy that it remains a local pub and meeting place for local people.