Demolition work to knock down a former public house in Dudley, and replace it with an Aldi supermarket, began today.

The end of the line for the once popular pub and restaurant was marked earlier this year when Dudley Council approved plans from the German supermarket giant to build a store and 94-space car park on the site.

Opinion was split with some members of the public saying more should be done to find a buyer willing to restore the building to its former glory. However many local residents, specifically those on the former Priory Estate immediately behind the land, said otherwise. Most welcomed the addition saying the store will provide jobs, increased local amenities and a far more attractive entrance to the town.

One homeowner said "I can't understand anyone opposing Aldi's plans.

"It's a lovely building and, in its time, a great pub. But times change and it's fallen into disrepair.

"More so, everyone who's spoken against it seems to be from miles away. If you live in the local area you can see the benefits."

Demolition work is due to be completed in December with construction work staring in the new year. The store is set to be open by March.