Drinkers who feared time had been called at their Oxford pub are breathing a sigh of relief after learning a nearby publican plans to take it over.

People living near the Chequers Inn, in Headington Quarry, were worried the site would be turned into flats when brewery Scottish and Newcastle put it up for sale in November.

But pub landlord Steve Jenkins, who currently runs the Red Lion, in Old Marston, has confirmed he has had an offer accepted to buy the pub.

Mr Jenkins, 41, said: "My dad used to drink in the pub when he was younger and played Aunt Sally there. When it came on to the market for sale, I couldn't believe it. But I knew straight away that I wanted to take it over.

"I want to make it a real family pub for the area and bring back good, wholesome, home-cooked food."

Mr Jenkins said there had been a great deal of interest from developers for the site, but he had managed to fight off the competition.

He added: "I know the local community felt very strongly about the site remaining as a pub, so I hope they will be pleased by the news.

"I've already been visited by a couple who live near the pub, who came down to the Red Lion to meet me and check me out."

Providing the sale goes through smoothly, Mr Jenkins hopes to take ownership of the pub by the end of next month. He then plans to close it temporarily for a refurbishment, aiming to reopen in early April.

However, Mr Jenkins said that leaving the Red Lion would be hard, after three-and-a-half years in charge.

He said: "We've made a lot of friends in our time here and it won't be easy to leave, but it's a fantastic challenge ahead."

People in Headington have welcomed news that Mr Jenkins will be arriving. Richard Bradley, who lives next to the pub and is chairman of the Friends of Quarry residents' association, said: "I'm very pleased to hear that Steve is taking over.

"People were very concerned about the future of the site, but this is excellent news."

Fellow Quarry resident Jack Ponsonby said: "It's fantastic that he's taking on the pub. Having been to the Red Lion, I know he's a man who will do a good job.

"I think everyone will welcome him to the area. And, if the food is as good as he says it's going to be, then I shall be there every Sunday."