PROPRIETORS of an award-winning Barnoldswick off-licence have achieved a long held ambition by opening a members' bar on the premises.

Alan Sagar and Penny Greenwood opened the bar in the basement of the Rainhall Drinks Company after three months' hard work.

It has transformed the cellar from dimly lit and little used storerooms into a welcoming and comfortable haven in which to enjoy a drink and a chat with friends.

Previously only one end of the cellar was opened up as a retail area for the superb selection of more than 300 bottled beers from the UK and abroad.

Now they have been moved to the main sales area upstairs and the rest of the cellar opened up to create the new bar.

Lowering and relaying the stone flag floor meant taking 16 tons of rubble out of the basement. Exposed beams and comfortable furniture give the new bar its cosy and convivial atmosphere, and a no smoking policy is in force.

There are four beers on draught and the selection will change regularly to bring members the best from around the world.

The bar also has a comprehensive wine list and a full range of wines and spirits, with plans to offer a specialist selection of single malt whiskies.

Initially the new bar will be open on Thursday and Friday evenings from 5pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon. Special tasting events, music evenings or private functions are also planned on an occasional basis on other evenings.

For Alan and Penny, it is the last link in a chain that has seen them transform the one-time general grocery store into an award-winning specialist off-licence and now incorporating an on-licence bar.

"It's been really hard work to get it finished on time, but we're delighted with the result," said Penny.