New owners call last orders on pub name

Time has been called on the name of a landmark Black Country pub, once a coaching inn in the 19th century, after new owners took it over.

The Saracens Head and Freemasons Arms in Dudley, which was owned by John Mantle between 1835 and 1850, has been renamed The Source bar at The Saracens. It has reopened after the previous tenant was forced to close the distinctive green doors earlier this year due to "financial difficulties". The Saracens Head had been known locally as The Napper.

It was named in commemoration of the Crusades, and was one of the town's important coaching inns.

It also became the base of the town's freemason's lodge, and was later renamed the Saracens Head and Freemasons Arms Hotel.

New owners, pub chain Source, have spent £200,000 revamping it as a trendy nightspot and say a new name was needed to go with its new look.

Promotions manager and former mechanic Simon Parkes, aged 22, said: "The pub had a very traditional image and we wanted to give it a more modern feel.

"The new owners Source wanted to get the brand known in the West Midlands and felt it was important to have it in the name of the pub.

"A lot of people are still calling it The Saracens Head but I think they are getting used to the new name."

The number of staff has almost doubled following the revamp with between 30 and 40 people now employed at the pub in Stone Street.

The refurbishment includes £40,000 spent on installing a DJ system which includes 20 speakers. Previously DJs had to bring their own equipment.

The kitchen has been upgraded and two new chefs who have 30 years experience between them and food is being sourced locally.

The interior has been jazzed up and there is a mirrored bar, chandeliers and artwork on the walls.