THE countdown to when a derelict pub known for its carvery and play den will open its doors again has started.

The former Raven on Droitwich Road is undergoing a major transformation into a gastropub and the opening date has been finally teased.

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Worcester mayor councillor Mel Allcott was recently invited to the watering hole to take a sneak peek into the renovations.

She said she can reveal the pub will open in August as the new owner, Good Host Group Ltd, put the finishing touches on its new business venture. 

Worcester News: EXCITED: Mel Allcott and Frankie Owen inside the pub before major refurbishment.EXCITED: Mel Allcott and Frankie Owen inside the pub before major refurbishment. (Image: Mel Allcott)"I am absolutely delighted, pleased and thrilled," she said.

"It is really coming together.

"Outside, you can't actually see much, but inside, they have done so much.

"It is going to be super and I am really excited."

She added she is pleased that the pub is finally opening in Claines, especially after the former Harvester, which is further down Droitwich Road, was knocked down this month.

So far, the pub had its play den completely removed to make way for a new restaurant area, which can also be hired out for functions. 

The upstairs has also been converted from a manager's flat to several rooms to accommodate guests looking for a place to stay.

Cllr Allcott also said the area where the former pool tables used to be has turned into an area full of booths.

Siblings Frankie, Patrick, and Jonathan Owen, who own Good Host Group Ltd, already own two pubs.

They also own The Tardebigge in Redditch and The Winged Spur in Henley-in-Arden.

Cllr Allcott added: "It is really heartwarming and exciting.

"It (The Raven) shows how easy it is to sit back and what bringing attention to something can do.

"If we had not done the story, it could have been a housing development or still closed.

"We have not lost this one and a piece of modern history has been kept."

The Raven Pub has remained abandoned since 2019 after the owners decided to close its doors for good.

A spokesperson for The Raven had confirmed last year the pub was up for sale following a further review of its business.