A POPULAR mine host who has dispensed good cheer for 20 froth-filled years is still pulling a foaming pint -- but from a different set of pumps!

For larger-than-life character Derek Burrows has taken the tenancy of Tetley's Hope and Anchor, City Road, a time-honoured watering hole that once echoed to the roar of St Helens Recs supporters.

Married to Susan and father of Kylie and Katie, 48-year-old Derek was previously called to the bar at the Wheatsheaf, Westfield Street, for five years, and Greenalls club (10 years) plus a brief flirtation with the Black Bull in Padiham.

First to concede that his stone-built pub represents a mighty new challenge, determined Derek said: "Sue and I are committed to turning the place around, and the opening night was an outstanding success. You could say that we hope to save the Anchor because, on obtaining an entertainment licence and with certain refurbishments completed, our intention is for a community-based pub with a progamme for all ages and tastes."

Included in the bouyant Burrows' open-all-day plans are live entertainment, karaoke, discos, games nights, darts, dominoes, pool, bar meals, function facilities (including christenings), and re-launch of the renowned Hope and Anchor soccer squad. Hardly surprising, given that Derek was once a hard-tackling midfielder with Prescot Town and Kirkby Town and, still on an outdoor theme, he intends to apply for membership of the Licensed Victuallers Golf Society.