IN THE summertime, why not head down to a brand new beach bar in Botley Road?

The Osney Arms guest house introduced its beach bar last week to a “great response” from customers.

The alcohol-free zone, which serves ice-cream and snacks, is run by Josh Tracey, 15, and his cousin, Hannah Ellis, 20.

Josh said: “We thought it would be a great idea to give people in the city the opportunity to come and have a break from working life.

“We’re really hoping that it’ll be a great place to hang out this summer.”

Miss Ellis added: “It’s a nice place to come and escape to and it’s a bit of a sun-trap because our outside area gets really hot, as if you really are on a beach.

“So if you want a getaway and the chance to enjoy some nice food, please come and visit us.”

The former pub, which dates from 1890, closed several years ago.

It reopened as a guest house in September last year after a £250,000 refurbishment.

Staff celebrated the opening by launching a coffee shop, which is now run alongside the beach bar.

Proprietor Gillie Barlow said the cafe was opened due to local demand, much like the beach bar.

She said: “People don’t want to have to walk into the city and we want to serve the locals in any way we can.”