Drinkers are raising their glasses to celebrate the reopening of Weymouth's oldest pub.

Fears were raised about the future of the historic Boot Inn after it closed suddenly a week before Christmas when pub giant Marston's removed the premises licence preventing it from trading.

It remained closed over Christmas and new year, although private parties were held for regulars. No money was taken for alcohol due to the licence being removed so drinks were free with staff working for tips.

Marston's did not give a reason for the licence being withdrawn, but told the Echo previously it was working to get the pub open again as soon as possible.

The previous tenant has now gone and new operators have taken over.

They launched a week ago and say they want to continue with "what the Boot is good at" – a friendly community pub serving good ales.

The new tenants are Emma and Richard Lamb who are also the operators of the revamped Nothe Tavern and soon to be refurbished Kings Arms on the harbourside.

They said Kevin Strickland, the Boot’s longest-serving member of staff, is still presiding over the bar along with some other familiar faces. The majority of the bar staff have been employed and are under new contracts.

Emma Lamb said: "It’s a great privilege to have been given the keys to The Boot Inn, arguably Weymouth’s oldest pub.

"We are working hard to ensure the Boot maintains its charm and all the elements the regulars and visitors to the pub expect. It’s a classic English pub and long may it stay that way."

Thanking customers for the support, she added: "Thank you for the massive show of support on opening night. It was heartwarming to see so many old friends returning."

The new operators say all the old favourites have returned to the pub, including Ringwood ales and the renowned Cheddar cider. Pork pies have also been reinstated along with the Wednesday quiz nights, the darts team and the famous 'Sunday banquet'.

Work is in the pipeline to get the old fireplace alight again, and the 'badger' – a touching tribute to a previous customer who sadly died, is back on the hearth.

The Boot is a favourite with real ale lovers and those seeking a pint and conversation away from town centre bars.

To keep up with current events the new Facebook page can be found at TheBootPubWeymouth

*The Kings Arms will be closed for a month from January 29 for refurbishment (closing party on January 25). It is due to relaunch the week commencing March 5.