A LOCAL hero is running the pub he worked at for 26 years.

Flint residents were furious when the Mill Tavern on Northop Road closed suddenly in April.

But now popular barman Bob Parry is back behind the bar and the pub has reopened.

Bob, 70, has joined forces with Cornist Hall owner Steven Napier to become the new licensee.

Taking time out from his busy first shift yesterday, Bob told the Leader: “Everybody is delighted that the pub has reopened.

“It’s been my life for the last 26 years and it’s nice to be back with the customers again. It will be Steven’s name above the door and I will be running the place for him as silent partner.

“Unfortunately the last tenants struggled a bit towards the end because the rent was so high. With competiton from the supermarkets too it was really difficult to sustain.”

Since the pub closed in April, Bob has been busy playing football and badminton.

He said the first day had gone well and added: “Lunchtime trade is never ever good anywhere because people are in work, but we are busy today.

“When we open for the evening at 5pm I know we can expect a large swarm of customers in and all the old faces.

“I’m really looking forward to that.

“I managed to get most of the old staff members back but of course some have moved on to other jobs. We have around six staff members at the moment while Steven and I get ourselves on our feet.

“Once we’ve relaxed and learned the ropes we will be looking to take on some more people.”