A couple who met in the former Republic of Rhodesia more than 40 years ago are the new mine hosts of the Bell Inn, in Cropthorne.

UK-born Pam had moved to South Africa with her parents and it was there she met Belgian-born hotel manager Guido Gyselinck. Forty years later she has returned to England where the couple have realised their dream of running a country pub while being close to Mrs Gyselinck's elderly parents who live nearby.

The couple planned to have their own pub nearly 10 years ago but they said the time had never been right until now.

"I have only been back in this country a year but I am enjoying it and we are looking forward to building the Bell Inn up and looking forward to Christmas," said Mrs Gyselinck.

The Bell Inn, which opened last week after the completion of work in the kitchen, has 60 covers and local chef, Alex Lunt, is already impressing customers with a wide range of culinary delights from game cobblers to steaks from Pershore beef, home made soups, pies, curries and fish dishes. They source local ingredients wherever possible and say they have already found a local brie that rivals any French types.

A five-course Christmas menu is now available.

"We want to create a friendly atmosphere so people feel welcome even if they want only to come for a drink or a snack, that is the most important thing," said Mr Gyselinck.

The Bell Inn is open every day except Monday and serves food from noon to 2.30pm and 5pm to 9pm. On Sundays food is available all day.