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In pictures: Rowley Regis pub revamp reveals hidden beauty

It has been hidden for 50 years - but now a charming stained glass window has been uncovered at a Black Country pub and restored to its former glory.

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The stunning window was found at The Wheatsheaf in Turner's Hill, Rowley Regis, during a revamp of the building.

New landlady Sara Harvey said she could not believe her eyes when she discovered the window hidden behind several boards.

"I bought the pub nine weeks ago and I wanted to re-decorate and bring it back to life," she said. "I was looking into fixing the air conditioning when I discovered a false ceiling that was put in after the war. I removed several boards to find behind this beautiful stained glass window was displayed.

"I was so stunned at what I had found. Unless you see it in person you can't really take it in, as when the light is shining through it looks amazing.

"It has really brought the pub to life.

"It was near enough in perfect condition, but I cleaned each bit of it myself to make it look pristine.

"There were no broken or missing pieces of it - it was just breathtaking."

The window sits underneath the main sign of the pub and is now visible from the outside.

The leaded stained glass depicts the scene of a wheatsheaf to the backdrop of the sun, with its rays as individual glass panes coming out of the middle. Doves are also featured.

It is thought that the window may have been covered during the 1950s, when more ornate details such as staircases, doors and windows were sealed up for a more simple design.

Miss Harvey has now bought spotlights to make the window look extra special at night.

The pub was built in the 1930s and has been extended over the years. The architect who designed the pub's unusual shape was thought to have been a sailor who dedicated the building to the memory of his father.

While clearing the pub, Miss Harvey also found other treasures hidden away in a cupboard.

"I found six original 1950s lamp shades in a cupboard just sitting there. They are gorgeous and sort of copies of the Tiffany style," she said.

"After finding out the window and shades, I had two locals say that they remember the window just when the war had finished. They are in their 80s and 90s now and it really brought about memories for them.

"They said the last time they saw it they were little children, so that must be really nice to see it again now after so many years have passed. It's heart warming."

Miss Harvey, 37, who is originally from Kent, has owned various pubs with her business Lakeside Pub Company but said The Wheatsheaf is her favourite.

"I guess you could say I'm married to the pub," she said. "Out of all the pubs I have had this is by far my favourite.

"I love the views, history and the kind-hearted people of the area.

"History is my passion - so to find such a stunning window hidden away was a crying shame.

"I have only been in the area since June but I love it here and can't wait to welcome more new and old customers."

Miss Harvey bought the pub in hope to extend her portfolio in the Midlands, with The Wheatsheaf being her first. She intends the pub to retain a traditional feeling with 60s and 70s music including a Northern Soul and Motown playlist.

She added: "I want the pub to hold a traditional vibe that is a free and easy atmosphere, where people can relax and enjoy good company.

"I like the age range that the music attracts too. I have a jukebox which plays out the classics and entices people to get up and have a dance if they like.

"We're quite old school and proud of that.

"When I took it over it was slightly run down, so it took me eight weeks to get it how I wanted it. I did the cleaning and re-decorating myself as well as running the bar, because at the moment I only have a few staff on the weekend.

"It's been hard work but I love the pub so it's all worth it - I want to give it 110 per cent."

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