Canal-side pub near Dudley which closed after major fire is to reopen this week - here are the details
A Black Country canal-side pub which has been lying empty for a year is to reopen this week after a major refurbishment.
The Samson & Lion in Brierley Hill Road, Wordsley, reopens on Friday, after being taken over by Matt Carey and Nicola Griffiths, who keep The Haden Cross in Cradley Heath.
Their team were today putting the finishing touches to the pub, following a two-month refurbishment programme.
They have installed Amy Bolton as manager, who spoke of her joy at taking over behind the bar.
"Im a mum of two who happens to have a huge passion for pubs and what they bring to a community.," she said.
"Working in them my whole working life across the country, I'm really excited to be taking on this massive new venture."
Mr Carey said he planned to turn the pub into a thriving community venue, with a choice of real ales, traditional pub food and sporting events.
He said he decided to take on the pub because of its location next to the canal, and on the main route between Wordsley and Brierley Hill.
"It's quite a spacious pub, and I can see so much potential," he said.
"We won't be doing karaoke or pub quizzes like we do at the Haden Cross, but there will be a focus on traditional pub food, and we're really into darts, so we hope maybe to get a couple of professional darts players along.
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