Having just returned from the afore mentioned establishment where Badger and I have been for the last 8 days I can DEFINATELY say it's well worth a visit.

The alcohol is excellently kept - next month Magician will have Banks for the bank holiday and Everards Tiger as guest ales as well as the regular supply of Camerons Ruby Red on handpull. He will also have draught Dry Blackthorn for cider drinkers instead of bottles.

The locals are welcoming and friendly and 'real' people and pleased to welcome new faces - although they are getting used to Mudcats wandering in. It was lovely to see Noreen popping in - though I think she had a surprise to see me behind the bar! There's a well established country music club on a Monday and musicians regularly use the pub to practise or jam.

Thanks a lot to Magician and Gillie for the last week. The only thing that suffered was my bank account - but it went to a good cause!!!