A FORMER Wetherspoons pub in East Lancashire is set to reopen under new ownership.

Earlier this year The Brun Lea, in Manchester Road, Burnley, was placed on the market by the popular chain as part of a national disposals programme.

Bosses had decided to dispose of the bar, which had originally traded from converted office premises as one of their Lloyds pubs since 2002, in favour of The Boot Inn, at the corner of St James Street and Parker Lane.

But now it has been announced that a consortium of local business people have signed on the dotted line to take over the two-storey pub, with a pledge to support local traders and continue with a much-loved Burnley favourite.

A spokesman for the new owners said: "The Brun Lea is a Burnley icon. Pretty much everyone has been in here for a drink at one time or other, many have fond memories too.

"Until recently this was a Wetherspoons, which sadly was put up for sale.

"When we heard it was being closed, we jumped at the chance to take over a piece of Burnley history.

"Our team of businessmen and women are passionate about giving The Brun Lea a new lease of life.

"We’ve got lots of plans, but we're starting out with a small refurbishment and a new menu.

"Bigger plans will come later, with the addition of a roof terrace to give a totally new perspective on Burnley town centre.

"We're working with new local suppliers and focusing on great customer service. We hope you’ll enjoy what we have to offer."

Fifteen other locations were placed up for sale around the same time. The remaining Wetherspoons in East Lancashire, The Postal Order in Blackburn, The Old Chapel in Darwen, The Commercial in Accrington and The Wallace Hartley at Colne, were not affected.