WE often take them for granted, but nowhere quite does pubs like this country.

Usually when they are written about in newspapers these days it is to report their decline.

It is a familiar narrative we have become used to over the last few years.

Therefore it is pleasing to read a bit of good news on page five today.

Many feared The West Hill Tavern, Buckingham Place, Brighton, had gone out of business over the winter.

However, it had been shut for renovations with a new husband and wife team behind the bar.

There were some concerns given that Ben and Heather Pistor have made their names in the club and bar trade.

But if what they say is true then it sounds as if The West Hill will retain its old charm.

It dates all the way back to 1852 and was previously known as The Belle Vue.

Generations of Brightonians have enjoyed the drinking hole, especially given its convenient location, close to the station.

When a pub is well run it is so much more than a place for a pint. It is almost like a community centre.

It is a place to meet friends, to make friends and to help and get help from others.

There are many fine examples of such community pubs in Brighton and Hove. And hopefully The West Hill will become one of these.

Mr Pistor said in today’s piece that it felt like the start of a new journey.

Hopefully it will be a long and happy one and one we will be on with him.

See you at the bar.