A GRADE II Stourbridge pub is set to reopen by Christmas as work takes place to bring it back to its Victorian splendour.

The Seven Stars on Brook Road was bought by Black Country Ales earlier this year, with the Pensnett-based company promising to bring the pub back to 'its former pomp'.

It is expected that the pub will be open by Christmas, according to the company, which runs 30 pubs throughout the West Midlands and Shropshire.

The railway side pub will feature 15 hand pumps, serving a range of its own beers, including BFG, Pig on the Wall, and Fireside, which are crafted in the company's brewery in Gornal.

There will also be a variety of guest ales available, along with a range of pub snacks, cobs and pork pies.

Graham Manwaring, head of pubs at Black Country Ales, said he was absolutely delighted with the purchase.

He said: "The classic Victorian inn has been a very popular part of Stourbridge’s drinking scene for many years both with thirsty locals and also railway passengers winding down on the way home.

“Work has already begun on a sensitive refurbishment of the pub, and will include a significant spend to return the Seven Stars to its former pomp.

“We expect the work to take several months, during which we are searching for cheerful and hard-working publicans to ensure the venue will be up and trading in time for Christmas.

“There is a real intention to make this a hub of the community where real ales and conversation are the stars of the show.”

Amy Potter, surveyor at James A Baker which handled the sale, said: “This is great news for Stourbridge, and seeing the venue restored to its former Victorian glory should bring in new clients, and increase trade.”