A ROSSENDALE cabby is set to swap life in the fast lane to pull pints at one of his favourite pubs.

Simon Cox, 35, of Commercial Street, Loveclough, will take over the reins at the Craven Heifer pub, in Rawtenstall, on March 31.

The taxi driver, who has been working for Rammy Cars, Bridge Street, Ramsbottom, for two years, made the decision after enjoying temporary stints at other East Lancashire pubs.

After holding a short-term management post at Hole Ith Wall, Shear Brow, Blackburn, and helping out at the Rose and Crown, Ramsbottom, he decided life as a landlord was what he had always wanted to do.

He will run the Burnley Road pub on behalf of Moorhouses as a freehouse.

Simon said: "I loved being involved in the pub scene so much that when this opportunity arose I thought it was too good to miss out on.

"I know that running a pub means there is little time for a social life, but I aim to make the pub my social life and put my heart and soul into running it.

"Being a taxi driver you get to meet people, but you never get into an in-depth conversation with people because most journeys are too short."

Simon will be hosting a party the Saturday following the official opening in three weeks and hopes locals will join him for the celebration.

He added: "I want to get the pub up and running before I decide to take on any other ventures, but eventually I will aim to serve food at the pub."