THE first thatched roof to be created in Pendle for many years has got heads turning and put a pub on the map before it even opens its doors.

Thatchers will be working on their traditional art in Nelson for another six weeks or so to complete the roof of the new hostelry taking shape in Scotland Road near the Barrowford roundabout.

The pub will be the flagship inn of the Devonshire Pub Company whose head offices are just yards away in what was the Springers sports and leisure club.

The eye-catching thatching is being carried out by a Cheshire firm under the watchful eye of boss Peter Brugge.

Some of the seven thatchers working on the roof are the third and fourth generations of their families to be involved in the ancient craft.

Water reed laid 12 inches deep and held in place with long metal hooks is being used on the roof, which should last around 50 to 60 years with regular maintenance.

Simon Padgett, Devonshire's development director, said: "Work on the roof should continue another six weeks and the pub is about ten to 15 weeks away from completion.

"It's going to be a very attractive traditional English pub. The roof has already caught people's attention."

Mr Padgett said local place names such as Reedyford and Read indicated that the area could well have historic links with thatching and the use of reeds.

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