MALVERN Link publican Jayne Peters is celebrating after finally getting the go-ahead to create a skittle alley.

An application to build the alley and improve the bar area at the Anchor Inn, in Yates Hay Road, was granted on appeal.

District council planners rejected the proposal in February, saying the pub had inadequate parking and that increased parking on local roads would affect road safety.

Mrs Peters, who leases the pub from Avebury Taverns, said many people would be pleased by news the decision had been overturned.

"We've already got at least four teams wanting to come and play here," she said. "We're very pleased and we thank our neighbours and regulars for their support."

Planning inspector Sue Glover visited the pub last month and decided the proposal was acceptable, subject to a sound insulation and ventilation system being fitted to control noise.

She said the Anchor was valued as a community facility and that many of its customers lived within walking or cycling distance.

"I therefore do not consider that additional car parking is necessary, and if it were to be provided it would encourage more car-based trips," she said.

A previous application was refused in April 1996 and Mrs Peter's husband Del admitted he had been worried that they would be disappointed again.

"When it has been refused three or four times you do start to wonder if it will happen again," he said.

Work on the alley will begin in the New Year and will be completed for the start of the new skittles season next September.