THE new managers of a historic pub are planning to repaint the signs out front because they say they are 'out of date and fading'.

The Oxford-based team who took over the Bell pub in Faringdon have had to apply for special planning permission because the 17th century market place building is Grade II-listed.

The group, who also run the Red Lion in Witney and the Jolly Postboys in Oxford, have already caused some upset in Faringdon by painting over a beloved mural on the walls inside the Bell.

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Now they have asked for planning permission to repaint the two hanging pub signs, two 'fascia' signs and the blackboard signs on the car park gates.

They told Vale of White Horse District Council: "The external paintwork is in poor condition and in need of redecoration. The colour scheme is considered dated and not in keeping with the interior of the building nor proposed signage."

A decision is due in June.