Devizes' newest and smallest hostelry The Vaults has bucked the trend of pubs being in decline despite only being able to open until 9pm.

The pub celebrated its first anniversary with a party for regulars and on this special occasion the drink flowed until midnight.

Owner Malcolm Shipp, of Sells Green, who came up with the idea for the pub said: "We were completely overwhelmed and even moved by the support and the outpouring of love for the place.

"I'd planned to be on standby just to help out if needed and chat to customers but spent most of the evening cleaning beer lines and changing barrels."

Staff served more than 800 pints of ale and cider during 12 hours on the party day.

The evening was rounded off with a huge birthday cake as the locals sang Happy Birthday and tucked into edible barrels and pump clips.

Alise Mellors, of Chippenham, who now manages the team said: "Saturday was the epitome of why I do this job and why we run The Vaults.

"The camaraderie of all the customers, new and old together, trying our huge range of unique beers and ciders from all over the world and consulting with them to find their perfect tipple, an incredible atmosphere."

The pub, which used to be an antiques shop, has not always been the toast of the town. It was given a premises licence by Wiltshire Council last year despite a 61 signature petition signed by locals concerned that the micro pub would increase rowdy behaviour.

Planning permission followed a few weeks later when three letters of objection were received by Wiltshire Council to to change the use of the Lignum shop into a pub.

A noise survey allayed the concerns of Wiltshire Council’s environmental health department.

The Vaults, near Devizes Town Hall in St John's Street, is open from noon to 9pm every day.