HUNDREDS of people turned out for a family fun day at the opening of The Haymaker Inn.

Michelle and Reg Thurley, from Bakersfield in California took over the pub and lived up to their promise that it would not only be under new ownership but ‘under new attitude’.

Michelle said: “We have been totally overwhelmed by the support we received – the pub was absolutely heaving.

“It was a completely awesome and quite emotional day, one that Reg and I will remember forever.”

Attractions included barbecue, stalls, bouncy castle, face painting, birds of prey and evening entertainment.

Combe St Nicholas parish council chairman Gerry Sayers said: “To see the pub brought back to life again after a difficult time is a joy for everyone in the community.”

Chard Mayor Cllr Jenny Kenton added: “I have no doubt the pub will become the hub of the community – it’s really good to see it so busy again.”