THE Saladin in Little Somerford is to appear in an HTV programme on successful country pubs in Wiltshire.

Sue Robson, who previously owned The Smoking Dog in Malmesbury took over the pub in November 2000. After extensive redecoration The Saladin re-opened in January 2001.

Ms Robson said: "It is a great opportunity for us to be a part of the programme."

In the programme, Particular Pubs, which is presented by locals Bill Tullberg and Richard Stancomb, she will be joined by chef Edward Portlock, and manager Paul Warriner.

Filming is planned to begin next month and it is anticipated The Saladin will be featured in the programme next February.

"When we sold The Smoking Dog we didn't want to move out of the area. There is a good demand for food and there aren't that many freehold pubs," said Ms Robson.

The pub is named after the balloon in which Walter Powell, a 19th century MP and philanthropist, disappeared.

In previous guises the pub has been an Australian theme bar and before that it was known as the Little Somerford Arms.

Ms Robson turned The Smoking Dog into a thriving business in the seven years she owned it. She said: "I think it is striking the right balance between those who come for high quality food and those that come in for a drink."

The Saladin has a bar serving ales and wines, and a separate restaurant area with seating for 50.