A LANDMARK pub in Deeside is set to reopen this year as a new owner takes it on.

The Halfway House pub in Connah's Quay was put up for auction this month and its future was unknown.

However, a new owner has taken it on and has pledged to keep it open as a pub.

New owner Shaun Ketley posted on Facebook: "We will be re-opening hopefully beginning of May 2020. It will be kept as a pub and eating house along with some live entertainment.

"We would appreciate you to like and share our page to support local businesses.

"This is a family run pub which is nothing to do with breweries we are a free house so please share and like and like our page, and a big thanks from the new owner Shaun Ketley."

The number of pubs in Flintshire is dwindling, with just 100 in the county in 2018 compared to 170 in 2007.

The Leader previously reported that a campaign was set up to reopen the building as a pub.

Cllr Andy Dunbobbin, who started the petition, said: "The pub was always seen as a place where the community would gather together. A place where you could talk to friends who would listen and help. Let’s stick together so we can build our community spirit - not diminish it."

The petition received over 500 signatures.