There's been a lot of work done, and the building looks fresh and clean. 4:29pm, Sunday, 23rd May 2010

Even on a Sunday, workmen were milling around. The exterior has been extensively restored. 4:27pm, Sunday, 23rd May 2010.

It’s apparently good news for local ale-lovers like the indefatigable Stymaster, for it seems I was very wrong about the future of the Trooper pub in the little village of Wall, between Lichfield and Brownhills. Passing the building on Friday 21st May 2010, I noted that a huge amount of contractors were on site carrying out all manner of jobs, from gardening to fitting equipment in the cellar. Cycling through the village again yesterday, I noted a few contractors still beavering away, and the addition of brand new pub signs. The signs say ‘The Trooper Restaurant Free House’ so the future of another, once lost pub looks set to be secured for a while. Asking a chap working in the beer garden, he wasn’t sure but seemed to think reopening would take place at the beginning of June.

The old place is certainly looking very smart, and I know that Stymaster, creator of the indispensable Publog, loves a walk out to a country pub. I think there will be at least one eager punter waiting to sample the revived establishment – the renovation certainly seems to have been done very well.

If the new owners are reading this, please drop me a line and I’ll happily publicise opening details etc.  We’ve lost so many local pubs in recent years, it’s good to have a bit of positive news. I wish you well.