PUBLICANS Steve and Nicky Wragg are hoping their plans for an extension will gain approval as demand grows for their bed and breakfast accommodation in Market Lavington.

The couple, who have run the Green Dragon in the High Street for more than 11 years, want to turn a listed outbuilding into four guest rooms.

Mr Wragg said: “We are full more or less 365 days a year so the sooner we can get planning permission for this the better. I really hope we can get the project finished by Christmas as we are already taking calls from families who want to come over.’ The Wadworth pub has three guest bedrooms but only one is en-suite. The new rooms, which would be created by converting a 17th century garage/store room at the back of the pub, would be decorated to a high standard and all have bathrooms.

Mr Wragg said: “There is a real need for more accommodation in the area. We get lots of people coming to stay because of the crop circles. The big difference we have noticed in recent years has been the number of Chinese people staying who have children at Dauntsey’s School.”

Wadworth has applied to Wiltshire Council for planning permission and will pay for the structural work, while Mr and Mrs Wragg pay for decoration and furniture.

In a statement to the council, agents for Wadworth said: “The applicant is in a position to be able to expand its business to provide overnight guest accommodation for the area, which confirms the town and locality has a healthy influx of tourism to the area.

“The proposal will help provide for the future viability and sustainability of the public house.”