AFTER 11 years at Fattios restaurant in Highworth, husband and wife team Ian and Sian Vockins have closed their doors for the last time and taken over the license at The Saracen's Head, just down the road in the town's market square.

Mr Vockins, who is now joint-landlord of the Arkell's pub with his brother, Shaun, said: "A lot of people were surprised at our decision to close such a popular and thriving restaurant, not least our bank manager.

"But we've been doing it for over a decade and we felt it was time for a change."

Since taking over, the pub has also been treated to an internal makeover, helped by Ian's uncle Ronnie, an electrician, and the public bar restored to its former panelled glory.

Arkells managing director James Arkell said: "We can't think of a better team to run The Saracen's Head."

The Saracen's Head is one of Highworth's oldest and most imposing buildings. It has been operating as an Inn since 1825, Arkell's Brewery bought it in 1883.