A DEAL has been struck to safeguard the long-term future of a popular village pub in rural Pendle.

Talks have been ongoing between owners Enterprise Inns and specialist pub management Winterhill Leisure over the Four Alls Inn at Higham.

The pub closed for four weeks before Christmas after previous landlords had left the Higham Hall Road.

But now Phil and Amanda Waters have taken over the 18th century hostelry permanently and it is going from strength to strength.

Tony Wardley, Winterhill regional manager, said: “There is a strong sense of community, and with the closure of the post office and shop in recent years, locals were keen to see the pub back up and running.

“The landlords have a strong community ethic and we knew, along with their professional management expertise, they would embrace village life.”

Mr Waters said: “This is a fantastic pub with a lot of history and some simple but effective changes, particularly the revised menu, have had a big impact.”

Coun James Starkie, who represents Higham and Pendleside, said: “I am absolutely delighted that this young couple have come into this pub and turned its fortunes around.

“The future of the pub is vital for the village and they have certainly been rewarded for their efforts.”