IT will be a real family affair when Great Harwood's newest restaurant opens for business today.

The former Lidgett pub in Blackburn Road has undergone extensive refurbishment to re-open as Harwood's Dining Room.

The building is owned by Great Harwood man Philip Martin but the restaurant will be run by proprietor Malcolm Clarke of Padiham.

Malcolm, who lives with his wife Marina, has more than 29 years experience in the catering trade and is a trained chef.

He will be joined in his new venture by his sons, Callum, who is also a chef, and Alex, who will be working front of house alongside Philip's daughter, Danielle.

Malcolm, who started work as a chef aged 15, has managed two restaurants in the North West and spent 18 months working at the Krasnapolsky Hotel in Amsterdam.

Both of his sons also have extensive experience in the trade.

The former pub has been totally refurbished and the new owners have gone for a Mediterranean look and a relaxed atmosphere.

They have included a piece of history in the new décor and have put up a mirror, which dates back to the building's days as the Cemetery Hotel, in the entrance.

Harwood's Dining Room will offer an a-la-carte menu in the evenings and all day Sundays, and soup, sandwiches, wraps and salads at lunchtimes.