AN OXFORD pub which reopened in October after a six-year closure has had its first visit from hygiene inspectors.

Diners at the Holly Bush, Osney Island, can now enjoy oven-baked pizzas knowing that inspectors awarded the pub the highest marks.

After it closed in 2013, the 167-year-old pub underwent extensive refurbishment and opened doors at the end of October this year.

Assistant manager Tom Riseley said the team anticipated a visit from hygiene inspectors, so were luckily prepared when they arrived.

He added: “We run a very tight ship here, trying to keep everything as clean as possible, so we knew we would get a good rating.”

The Holly Bush has an extensive menu that caters to coeliacs, vegetarians and vegans, with gluten-free items being cooked in a separate oven to avoid cross any risk of cross-contamination.

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Oxford Mail:

Mr Riseley assured that with every seasonal menu the chefs try to be as inclusive as possible.

He added that kitchen staff can swap any ingredients to cater for all tastes.

The manager said: "Pizza is one third of our entire brand.

"It does make a massive part of our business, which is why we try to take really good care of the dining experience of our customers.

"We have only received good feedback so far, so we are going to keep the standards up."

"We have had a really busy Christmas and luckily, we have put so many smiles on people's faces. I cannot wait to carry it on in the next year."

The Holly Bush, which has a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor, scores number 80 out of 97 pubs in Oxford in popularity.

One reviewer wrote on the website: “Like a phoenix the Holly Bush has risen again.

“Used to drink in there years ago.

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“More of an eatery now but still a good few seats next to the dining area should you only want a drink.

“Good array of real ales and lager. Great menu, we opted for 2 sharer starters and a pizza."

While some were attracted by the bar, other customers raved about the menu and their two-for-one pizza offer on Monday.

One diner commented: “Authentic, thin crust pizza.

“Huge cheesy, garlic calzone. Loads of toppings to choose from.”

Customers are also invited to fill up with chicken wings on Wingman Wednesdays, with vegan cauliflower wings available for those looking for a meat-free alternative.

The pub is opened throughout the Christmas period and on New Years eve when it shuts at 1am.