A new sports bar has opened in Witney providing live music, food and 'a party atmosphere'.

The Red Lion on Corn Street has reopened as The Rocket Sports Bar & Grill.

Pub and brewing company Greene King advertised for new tenants for the pub, which was trading as an American Smokehouse, back in January.

It was looking for tenants to operate the premises as a late night venue as it has previously been licensed until 2am.

It said: "We are looking for a new partner who can re-introduce the Red Lion as a late night venue to drive the wet volume, but can ensure the pub offers food and a casual environment during the day, whilst ramping up the party atmosphere during the weekend evenings."

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Former owners Sam Halsey and Maverick and Sian Ogden were forced to close the Red Lion Smokehouse, which they founded in 2020, earlier this year.

They said in a public post: "Unfortunately with the recovery from Covid, the cost of living crisis and the increase in food and general business costs we can no longer keep going."

A Greene King spokesperson said: “We’re delighted to share that The Red Lion has reopened as The Rocket Sports Bar & Grill and will be operated independently by our business partner Stout and Stone Inns.

"A late night venue specialising in live sport and entertainment, the pub has been upgraded with TV screens fitted throughout ready to show the Euros this summer.

"Alongside a great atmosphere for live sports, the pub will also pride itself on its live music and food with a menu that includes chicken wings, nachos, pizzas and more.”