WORK is under way at a once-popular Barnoldswick pub where the doors have stayed shut for over a year.

The Seven Stars, on Church Street, was a firm fixture on the town centre circuit of pubs and clubs, but eventually could no longer compete with lower drinks prices at the many members' clubs.

Now rumours are rife that the pub could be set to open its doors again.

Steve Wright was landlord at the Stars for just over 10 years, but in that time saw takings slump dramatically to the point where the pub couldn't be made to pay.

"It was heaving on a Friday and Saturday night for the last hour of the discos," said Steve. "We'd have 200 people in, but only 50 of them would have a glass in their hand. They'd already had their drinks cheaper at other clubs and would just come for the free disco.

The rest of the week it was dead. I tried everything, but in the end I just couldn't make it pay without the owners agreeing to cut the drinks prices. You just can't compete with the Con Club and Green Street prices in Barlick."

Steve took the view that if you can't beat them, join them. He is now steward at the town's Conservative Club, where business is booming.

The Seven Stars has stayed shut since Steve quit 13 months ago, despite marketing by Pubmaster.

But this week there have been signs of life at the pub, prompting rumours that it could reopen soon. Decorating work is being carried out inside, with power for the lights run from a mobile home parked on the pub forecourt.

When we contacted Pubmaster, a spokesman confirmed that the company does still own the pub and was "currently looking at ways to get it open again."

The Seven Stars is also still listed on the company's website under the pubs to let section, although the sales pitch is a little out of date.

It reads: "The Seven Stars is situated on the high street in Barnoldswick. Mainly a local destination pub, it currently has a food offer and accommodates young and old customers. On a weekend the pub is on the busy town circuit and has potential to progress further in both wet and dry sales."

Former landlord Steve Wright said he would love to see the Seven Stars up and running again, adding that it would be good for the town, especially that end of Church Street. But he doubted it could be done without a lot of support from Pubmaster.

"The Stars has a lot going for it. It's the only pub in town with a decent beer garden, but it will take a lot of effort," he said.