Bognor Regis pub reopens its doors

The White Horse which was purchased earlier this month by Fiona Trust, Stuart Lock and Mark Flecher will open today (Friday, August 27).

One of the owners Mr Lock said: "We have all been friends for years and Fiona used to run a bar in Southsea called Nelsons Bar so she has the knowledge and experience of how to run a pub."

"We had looked at other pubs before deciding to buy this one, but when we saw the building with the stage and the space it seemed to good to miss.

"Fiona is also from this area originally and when I was young I spent a lot of time in Pagham so it just seemed ideal.

"In keeping with the pub's musical history eight bands have been organised to

perform on its opening night.

Mr Lock said: "We will have eight different bands playing and hopefully if we have positive feedback we will be able to book them again for other events.

"We have also hired doormen for the night to make sure everything runs smoothly and is under control."

The pub which is well known as a platform for live music hopes to give local musicians the chance to show off their talent.

Mr Lock said: "We are hoping to be able to have bands and music events twice a week, also we want to offer young musicians the chance to get up on stage during soft drink nights.

"We also hope to be able to host charity and community events cheaply and we already have one booked in for November."

The pub which has had its fair share of problems was previously known as The Travellers Joy and has been a public house since the 18th century.

Mr Lock said: "We are aware that in the past the pub has got a bad name but we are going to change that.

"We hope by talking to local people and asking them what they want we will create a sense of community and make sure they are getting what they want from their local pub."

The pub opens from 3pm to midnight and entrance is free.