LOVE may be in the air but lovebirds are definitely not welcome at a pub tonight.

The Royal Arms, Tockholes, is a sanctuary for singles who are feeling left out in the cold on the most romantic night of the year.

Landlady Norma King has promised there will be no dewy-eyed couples allowed at her pub -- and she's even told her own partner, Paul Pelham, he's barred for the evening.

She said: "Valentine's Day can be a difficult and lonely time for single people. Everywhere there are adverts for gifts, flowers and special destinations for lovers to go, but if you're on your own it can be a depressing experience.

"We have a regular singles night at the pub, but decided to hold a special 'no couples' evening to provide a place for those on their own."

She's intending to keep couples out at all costs -- and is even keeping an eye out for regulars trying to sneak in separately.

Norma's laying on a curry buffet and will be introducing people to break the ice

But although she may have foresworn Valentine's Day celebrations, she's still expecting a card herself.

She said: "I'm not sending any but Paul will be in trouble if I don't get one."