INSPECTOR Morse's favourite pub, The Trout, at Godstow, is soon to become a minimalist gourmet restaurant, fear local drinkers.

The riverside pub, regularly featured in the successful television series, is to close early in the New Year for a major refurbishment.

But regulars say owner Mitchells & Butlers has plans for The Trout that would have had Morse choking on his real ale.

Mitchells & Butlers confirmed a new look is being planned for the pub, which it says has become "a victim of its own success". Designers are being asked to create a gastro pub.

Regulars, however, say the character of the county's world-famous watering hole is in danger of being swept away.

Hugh Dawson, of Wytham who has frequented the pub for 40 years, said: "It will not be The Trout as we know it any more.

"We understand the flagstones will be covered in floor boards, with spot lights everywhere and white and blue walls. It all sounds very minimalist, clean and cold. There is even talk of a dress code."

Mr Dawson, 60, said: "It is so dreadful because people care about this pub. You can travel anywhere in the world and you will find someone who will say they've drunk in The Trout."

Inspector Morse author Colin Dexter said: "I would be very sad to see the old place change. I admire the flagstones more than anything."

Mitchells & Butlers spokesman, Jenny Grant, said: "The pub is doing so well that it deserves to have money spent on it. It's a beautiful pub and our plans are to make it better. Any changes will be done sympathetically." She said one of the priorities would be to stop big queues forming. The pub is likely to be shut for about eight weeks early next year.

The Trout manager Bob Maher said he would be leaving once the refit gets under way. He said: "This year has been the most successful in my time here."

He added that talks had been held with Oxford City Council's preservation officer about proposed changes.