TWO Bromsgrove historians are unhappy that a well-known town centre pub has reached the end of the line.

But the owners of the former 'Shoulder of Mutton' which reopens soon as 'The Wishing Well' says the change of name represents a new start.

Dr Alan Richards described the demise of the 'Shoulder of Mutton' as a sad day for the town.

"A little bit of Bromsgrove has been lost. There has been a 'Shoulder of Mutton' on the site for 500 years," he said.

Author Robin Shaw who lives in Kidderminster Road and is a member of the Housman Society committee also laments the change of name.

"Edward. the poet A.E. Houseman's father who used to live at Perry Hall and was fond of a drink used to hurl a stone that landed on the pub roof and was a signal for the landlord to fetch him a jug of ale.

"We regret the name change because it is the loss of a part of Bromsgrove's history."

But joint licensee Jeff Kay was unrepentant and looks forward to the pub in St John's Street reopening on Saturday as 'The Wishing Well.'

"Latterly 'The Shoulder of Mutton' had a somewhat dubious reputation and this represents a new beginning," he said.

"The pub has undergone a major refurbishment and extension including the creation of a larger bar, new kitchen and garden area."

It will offer real ale and live music. Punch Taverns have undertaken the renovation as a joint venture with Hop Pole Inn Limited.