A WITNEY pub landlord says the success of his business has allowed him to expand.

John Champion, who owns the Hollybush Inn in Corn Street with his wife Pinky, has submitted plans to West Oxfordshire District Council to extend the pub beyond the kitchen at the back of the building.

The plans, which follow a previous kitchen extension, would bridge the gap with the outdoor barn.

Mr Champion said: “It’s an old pub which has had a series of add-ons over the years. The previous extension and the one we’re planning will bring it all together. We’ve a barn at the bottom of the garden and hope to bring it indoors.

“Our success has probably allowed us to expand a bit, which is good for the town. The pub has a good vibe and we’re trying to keep that.”

Mr Champion has owned the pub for nine years and also owns the Three Horseshoes in Corn Street.

He said high business rates meant fresh approaches were needed to keep pubs busy. The barn, which can fit up to 40 people, is popular with visitors so Mr Champion wants to make more use of it.