Five locals have taken over a Bicester pub which was in danger of closing including a woman who has worked there since her young teenage years.

The Plough on North Street was doomed to close but it was recently rescued by The Olive Tree Pub Company, who are a group of five local people.

Arran Hodges, Maxine Hodges, Georgia Hodges, Catherine Wilson and Jamie Gibbs picked up the keys for the pub on Friday, January 12 with its final day under the previous owner being the day before.

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The pub will now temporarily close for two weeks for re-decorating and general maintenance and is due to reopen on Saturday, January 27.

One of the three directors, Aaran Hodges, who has been regular at the pub for years said the team are "super excited" about the new venture.

Taking over as general manager will be Georgia Hodges who is also one of the directors of the company.

Oxford Mail: General manager Georgia Hodges with bar staff member Leon Tutt

Ms Hodges, now aged 25, started working at the Plough at the age of 13 waiting tables, with her first shift on a very busy Father's Day.

She also worked at The Plough during the Covid-19 pandemic before becoming the general manager in 2019 while studying for a degree in psychology.

Another director Jamie Gibbs is also taking on a key role as the head chef.

Mr Gibbs has a vast portfolio including Olympic gold medals for the England culinary team of which he is still a team member.