A POPULAR Worcester pub and restaurant has new owners, and is to reopen under a new name.

The Marwood, the popular freehouse and restaurant, was transferred to new owners Shane and Amy Peckover last week.

The pub in The Tything has been in the hands of the Coates family for a number of years where it gained a reputation for good food and a good atmosphere.

The venue is currently closed, but reopens this Saturday as the Ounce.

Mr Peckover explained the name was chosen as his family has a butchers background, and diners will be able to order by the ounce.

This Saturday there will be a special opening night with a DJ, playing soul, disco and house music.

Mr Peckover said: "This is my fourth pub and restaurant and it is really exciting to take it on.

"There will be different cuts of meats for people to choose from in the restaurant.

"Food will be served noon to 11pm, throughout the week, 4pm on a Sunday."

Humberstones, a business transfer agent, has been handling the sale of the pub - which is the firm's local pub as its head office is in The Tything.

Humberstones director Sally Szymanski said: "Local knowledge is key when handling this kind of sale.

"We knew exactly the sort of buyer we were looking for and were able to give an in depth analysis of the business to ensure a smooth sale.

"We wish all parties the best for the future."

The pub was previously known as The Green Man pub until Ben and Oli Coates bought it in September 2007, and changed the name to the Marwood, as that was a name in their family history.