A FLINTSHIRE pub once voted the worst in Britain has seen its fortunes turned around.

The Victoria Hotel in Holywell was forced to shut five years ago after outbreaks of violence and was named Britain’s Worst Pub by readers of FHM magazine.

But now with new management and a new name, the My Place nightclub has had permission to extend its licensing hours.

Landlord Craig Campbell believes the new club’s membership system and over-25s policy have gone a long way in transforming its image.

He told the Leader: “When we re-opened, people were saying that we weren’t going to change but we have been open for 13 weeks now and we’ve had no trouble at all.

“We have the right clientele and the right reputation now and the door staff are fantastic.

“They are local lads who know exactly who they should and shouldn’t be letting in the club.

“They make it safe for everyone.”

The Grade II listed bar can now serve until 2am on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Craig added: “Usually people come here for a couple of drinks before moving on to Chester or Wrexham but now we are open later, I’m hoping that they will make a night of it here.

“I guess we’re just trying to keep them in the area to support businesses in Holywell.”

One venture Craig is hoping will attract the crowds is a Flintshire’s Got Talent competition where showbiz wannabes will have the chance to launch their career.

The contest, following the format of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, will take place over six weeks and a panel of judges will pick their favourite acts to go through to the next round.

The first heat is on Friday, July 23 and the competition will run every Friday until the final on Friday, September 3.

Applications must be submitted before Friday.

Go to www.my-place.co.uk to download an application form.