Shaw residents will have an extra reason to raise a glass at Christmas, now their local pub is back after a two-month closure.

The Golden Fleece, in Folly Lane, unexpectedly closed at the end of September, but the couple now in charge are looking forward to people returning to the bar.

Husband and wife John and Janet Casey, who have lived in Corsham since 2000 and have experience of running several pubs in the area, re-opened the bar last Thursday.

Mrs Casey, 53, said: “We put on a small buffet to welcome people.

“We ran the Biddestone Arms, near Chippenham, for seven years and spent a couple of years at the Black Horse at Cherhill, but when this came up it was ideal. It’s a nice little country pub, which was just what we were after.

“It’s a nice spot and we know a lot of people around here. My husband is a chef, so we want to focus on food. We do a traditional English menu, not fancy, pretty food, just wholesome, good-sized portions.”

They hope to establish music and quiz nights, as well as serving food at lunchtimes and evenings.

Mrs Casey said: “Opening night went very well.

“The local people are really pleased they have got their pub open again. A lot of people have come in to just stick their heads round the door to say welcome to the village, which is really nice, as a lot of them didn’t think it would be reopening again.

“We have all been made to feel very welcome.”

The pub can be contacted on 01225 702050.