More than 60 jobs to be created.

Employment opportunities in Honiton are to be given a boost as more than 60 jobs are to be created in the town.

Pub chain J D Wetherspoon, who took over ownership of the Star Inn, told the Midweek Herald that approximately 40 to 45 jobs will be created.

An estimated 25 jobs are expected to be generated by supermarket chain Aldi when it opens its new store on the former Slades’ site, which is currently still under construction.

It is not known what proportion of these jobs will be full-time and part-time.

The chief executive of J D Wetherspoon, John Hutson, said: “We are very much looking forward to opening The Star Inn, in Honiton.

“We believe the pub will be a welcome addition to the town and appeal to people of all ages.

“Hopefully, it will also act as a catalyst for further investment into Honiton.”

One of Honiton’s most famous racing pigeons, Ron’s Dream, will be a central focus in the interior design of the New Street pub, which has been developed by designers Absolute.

Ron’s Dream lost out on victory in a race when his owner, local Dewhurst butcher Ron Bauer, died suddenly of a heart attack and was unable to time his bird home.

His stepson was able to clock in the hen, but lost valuable time as he was unfamiliar with the clocking in process.

However, the famous hen still managed to claim third place but it is believed she probably won the national race against 9,681 other birds.

The revamped Star Inn will be opening in July.

The Mayor of Honiton, Councillor David Foster, has welcomed the announcement.

He said: “Obviously, any boost to employment and the local economy is welcomed by myself and the town council, particularly from large employers such as Wetherspoon and Aldi who give job, training and personal development opportunities for employees.

“It shows we are a town on the grow and that larger companies like Wetherspoon and Aldi are looking at Honiton as a good place to go.”

Visit www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk and www.aldi.co.uk/recruitment for more information.