BREWERY bosses are almost ready to reveal the new £1.6million Fernhurst in Ewood, Blackburn.

The first phase of the development, a pub and restaurant in Bolton Road, will open on Friday, September 8.

The 30-bedroom Star Lodge will open in November.

Blackburn-based Thwaites Inns have tempted new managers Mark and Julie Norman back to their North West roots from a pub in Berkshire to run the new complex.

The couple originally from Blackpool, have been in the trade since the 1980s and have also managed pubs in Manchester and their home town. Julie said: "It has always been our ambition to be involved in a new development like this and the investment in the Fernhurst is goods news for the community and local economy as a whole.

"We are delighted with the quality and professionalism of the team that will join us.

"They are all from the area and take a pride in wanting to offer the very best service around."

The Fernhurst has been designed to offer a community pub alongside a restaurant and travel lodge.

A function room for business meetings or family celebrations is also included in the complex.