THE owners of a popular Clayton-le-Moors pub are giving it a £340,000 makeover ahead of its grand opening later this year.

Heineken-owned Star Pubs and Bars, owners of The Hyndburn Bridge, are busy giving it a complete overhaul.

Up to 30 members of staff will be hired to work at The Hyndburn Restaurant and Bar, which will serve up home cooked food, including freshly made pizzas and real ale.

It will open for an invite-only event on Wednesday, September 30, almost a year after it closed down .

It will reopen to the public on Friday, October 2 and will be run by new licensees Stuart and Melanie Blackledge, who owned the Green Chilli Deli and Sandwich Co. in Burnley Road, Blackburn, until recently.

Mr Blackledge said he plans to move in with his family above the pub.

He said: “We’re looking forward to a new life in the area and to become an important part of the community, having had a great deal of positive feedback from local people already.

“The Hyndburn Restaurant and Bar will have a real family friendly feel and as parents of three children ourselves, we think we will be able to deliver great food for kids at great prices.

“We intend to be among the best food pubs in the area, with a real focus on delivering a ‘great pub – great food – great price’ experience for our customers.”

Trading director at Star Pubs and Bars, Chris Jowsey, said: “We’re delighted to be investing in and helping Stuart to realise his dream, and wish him and Melanie the best of luck in their new venture. “They have the ideal background and enthusiasm to create a fantastic top quality family friendly food pub.”

Interviews for jobs at the venue were due to be held this week.