THE new bosses of a Stoneclough pub hit on an idea to retain some of its history, despite the building having undergone a half-million pound facelift.

Managers Stuart Price and Pat Atkins discovered an old photograph of a former landlord of the Lord Nelson, standing outside with some of his staff and customers.

So they decided to re-enact the scene in front of the newly-renovated pub and take a photo for posterity.

Stuart said: "As far as we can tell, the old photo is from the end of the First World War.

"The banners on the front wall declare Peace and everyone seems lined up to celebrate the Armistice but we would be delighted to hear from anyone who can provide more information."

Stuart said steps had been taken to retain the pub's character, despite a total of £550,000 being invested on the building by Thwaites Inns.

"The latest line-up highlights the cosmetic changes to the outside of the pub, but essentially little has altered structurally.

"Internally, we have taken great care to preserve the character of the Lord Nelson as it has always been such an important part of the local community," said Stuart.

The name "Robert Partington" inscribed on the front of the old pub has also left its new owners scratching their heads.

A Thwaites spokesman added: "It's a mystery to us. We can only assume it was the name of the landlord but again we would be glad to hear from anyone who can tell us for certain."